THE 


THOMSON-HOUSTON  ELECTRIC  COMPANY, 

PROPRIETORS  OF  THE 


THOMSON-HOUSTON 

Electric  Lighting  System, 

PRINCIPAL  OFFICE, 

No.  131  DEVONSHIRE  STREET, 

BOSTON,  MASS. 


FACTORY  AT  LYNN,  MASS. 


THE 


T^on]soi]-5onsToi] 


Electric  Company, 


PROPRIETORS  OF  THE 


THOMSON-HOUSTON  SYSTEM 


OF 


ELECTRIC  LI&pil]&. 


MANUFACTURERS  OF 

Dynamo-Electric  Machines,  Electric  Motors,  Electric 
Arc  Lamps,  Incandescent  Lamps,  Current  Regu- 
lators, Current  Distributors,  Lightning 
Arresters,  Cut-Outs,  Switch-Boards, 

Etc.,  Etc. 


DEALERS  IN 


Klectkical  Apparatus 


GENERALLY. 


Principal  Business  Office  : 


STREET, 


BOSTON,  MASS. 


CONTENTS. 

I’AOZ. 

Introductory 7 

Description  of  Apparatus !i 

Air-Blast  Spark  Controller 10 

Arc  Lamps 11 

Focussing  and  Search  Lamps ' 11 

Automatic  Regulator  and  Controller 14 

Distributing  Switch  . . . . • 10 

SUMMARA'  OE  FaCTS 10 

Incandescent  Distributing  Sa'ste.m 20 

Cost  oe  Operating  Plants 22 

Testimonials  from  Local  Companies 24 

Cities  wherein  this  Compana'  has  superseded  others 30 

Klectricita'  vs.  Gas 30 

Local  Companies  in  United  States  and  Abroad 42 

Isolated  Lighting 51 


Dynamo-Electric  Machine,  with  Thomson's  Spherical  Armature. 


I ■ 


) 


OFFICERS.^ 


H.  A.  PEVEAR,  President. 

C.  A.  COFFIN,  Vice-President.  S.  A.  BARTON,  Treas.  and  Manager. 
E.  I.  GARFIELD,  Secretary.  ELIHU  THOMSON,  Electrician. 


E.  J.  HOUSTON,  Consulting  Electrician. 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 
in  2017  with  funding  from 
Columbia  University  Libraries 


https://archive.org/details/thomsonhoustonelOOthom 


INTRODUCTORY 


I'lie  Tliomson-IIoiiston  system  wiiich  is  now  exciting  so  inucli  inter- 
est iiiul  favoruljle  eomincnt  in  Europe,  has  been  in  operation  in  various 
cities  of  tlie  I'nitecl  States  for  tlic  past  three  years. 

'I'lie  rai)itl  clevelopment  wliicli  it  lias  acliieved  in  this  sliort  time,  hav- 
ing Iieen  adopted  in  nearly  one  liundred  cities  and  towns  in  tlie  United 
States,  has  placed  it  far  in  advance  of  its  competitors,  and  lias  won  for 
it  the  reputation  of  tieing  the  most  simple,  economical,  and  commercially 
valuable  system  of  electric  lighting  in  the  market. 

The  apparatus  of  the  Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Company  possesses 
advantages  of  an  important  character  over  all  others. 

The  dynamo  machine  is  strictly  automatic  in  character,  admitting  of 
any  number  of  lights  being  turned  oft’  simultaneously  without  injury  to 
the  machines  or  remaining  lamps,  or  without  the  introduction  of  resist- 
ance, and  with  a corresponding  reduction  of  power.  To  illustrate : if 
there  should  be  forty-tive  lights  in  use  on  a circuit  and  forty  of  them 
should  be  turned  off  simultaneously,  the  dynamo  would  be  perfectly 
controlled  by  the  automatic  regulator,  without  any  attention  on  the  part 
of  an  engineer  or  other  person  in  charge,  so  that  the  remaining  lamps  would 
receive  only  their  proportion  of  electric  current,  and  the  power  reduced 
to  that  sutlicieut  to  run  them.  This  is  a feature  which  is  possessed  by  no 
other  company  in  the  world. 

15y  an  ingenious  and  simple  attachment,  a constant  and  strong  current 
of  air  is  forced  upon  the  surface  of  the  commutator  directly  in  the  path 
of  the  brushes,  so  that  the  heating  and  sparking  which  is  so  troublesome 
and  dangerous  in  other  machines  is  entirely  overcome,  allowing  a free  use 
of  oil  on  the  commutator,  and  thereby  reducing  the  wear  and  tear  to  a 
minimum.  This  is  an  advantage  possessed  by  the  Thomson-Houston  sys- 
tem alone. 

One  of  the  principal  items  in  tlie  expense  of  operating  an  electric 
light  plant  is  the  outlay  for  repairs  on  apparatus,  through  the  burning  out 
of  armatures,  and  wearing  of  commutators,  brushes,  etc.  This  has  been 
so  skilfully  provided  against  in  the  construction  of  the  Thomson-Hous- 
ton apparatus,  that  the  annual  charge  for  depreciation  and  repairs  on  a 
plant  of  this  system  is  reduced  to  a point  far  below  that  sustained  in  the 
operation  of  any  other  in  use,  and  makes  it  possible  to  do  a profitable  busi- 
ness in  supplying  lights  from  a central  station  under  circumstances  that 


8 


witli  any  other  known  .system  would  I’esult  in  a loss.  This  has  been  so 
fully  proven,  that  in  many  prominent  cities  in  the  United  States  entire 
plants  of  other  sj’stcms  have  been  thrown  out  bodily  and  Thomson-Hous- 
toi>  plants  installed  in  their  place,  a sufficient  saving  being  eflected  thereby 
to  place  the  companies  which  had  before  been  conducting  their  business 
at  a loss,  upon  a paying  basis. 

It  has  been  fully  demonstrated  in  various  parts  of  the  United  States 
that  in  any  one  of  three  essential  particulars,  there  can  be  eflected  a 
saving  as  compared  with  any  other  system,  in  an  amount  sullicient  to  pay 
the  interest  on  the  entire  cost  of  the  apparatus.  First,  in  the  matter  of 
wear  and  tear  and  depreciation.  Second,  in  the  econoinj’  of  power  con- 
sumed, because  of  the  automatic  regulation.  Third,  in  the  cost  of  attend- 
ance resulting  from  the  automatic  features  of  the  apparatus  and  its  great 
simplicity  of  construction.  All  of  which  constitute  elements  absolutely 
necessary  to  secure  a profitable  and  successful  business  in  all  places  and 
under  all  circumstances. 

The  Thomson-IIouston  incandescent  system  of  lighting  possesses 
equally  superior  advantages.  Its  dynamo  for  direct  low  tension  incandes- 
cent lighting  possesses  very  superior  features  of  simplicity  and  econ- 
omy, and  carries  a greater  number  of  lights  in  proportion  to  its  weight 
than  any  other  made.  During  the  past  few  months  the  company  has  in- 
troduced a method  for  running  incandescent  lights  on  the  same  circuit 
with  arc  lights,  and  in  such  a manner  that  each  incandescent  light  is  en- 
tirely independent  of  the  others,  and  can  be  extinguished  or  lighted  at 
pleasure.  This  is  also  a special  feature  possessed  by  no  other  company. 

Because  of  the  remarkable  simplicity  and  economical  features  of 
the  Thomson-IIouston  system,  it  is  especially  adapted  for  use  in  countries 
remote  from  the  source  of  supplies  of  electrical  apparatus.  So  fully  has 
this  been  recognized  that  in  all  cases  where  there  has  been  an  intelligent 
investigation  into  the  merits  of  the  diflerent  systems  for  export  trade 
during  the  past  two  years,  the  Thomson-Houston  has  been  selected  as 
oflering  the  best  facilities  for  establishing  a profitable  business.  This 
company  is  rapidly  pushing  the  introduction  of  its  apparatus  into  various 
foreign  countries  and  cities. 


DESCRIPTION  OF  APPARATUS  MANUFACTURED 
BY  THE  THOMSON-HOUSTON 
ELECTRIC  CO. 


Tlie  DYNAMO-MACHINE  of  the  present  system,  eml)odies 
joint  improvements  patented  by  Elihn  Thomson  and  Edwin  J.  Ilonston, 
and  improvements  patented  by  Elihn  Thomson.  We  call  especial  atten- 
tion to  the  following:  merits:  — 

1st.  Extreme  simplicity,  there  being  only  three  coils  of  wire  on  the 
revolving  portion,  or  armature,  and  three  i)ieces  of  copper  in  the  com- 
mutator. 

2d.  The  complete  enclosure  of  the  armature  by  the  coils  and  magnets 
of  the  machine,  concentrating  the  power  where  it  should  be  applied  to 
produce  the  best  results,  and  preventing  injury  to  the  moving  parts,  or 
danger  to  the  machine  from  iron  objects  being  drawn  into  it. 

3d.  The  highest  ctliciency,  due  to  the  enclosure  of  all  the  wire  of  the 
armature  where  the  electricity  is  generated,  by  a most  powerful  magnetic 
field,  giving  great  saving  in  horse-power  to  produce  a given  result. 

4th.  The  spherical  form  and  small  size  of  the  revolving  portion  or 
armature,  giving  the  least  possible  air-resistance,  or  loss  of  power  by  fan- 
ning air. 

5th.  The  form  and  size  of  the  armature,  preventing  the  possibility 
of  injury  due  to  centrifugal  force. 

6th.  The  compact  and  encased  condition  of  the  parts,  such  as  insu- 
lated wire,  rendering  them  not  subject  to  injury  by  contact  with  surround- 
ing objects. 

7th.  The  continuous  character  of  the  current  and  its  conscciuent 
advantages. 

8th.  The  machine  possesses  the  simplest  commutator  in  the  world 
giving  continuous  currents ; and  from  its  construction  there  is  no  danger 
of  injury  to  its  insulation,  so  often  the  cause  of  putting  the  generators  of 
other  systems  out  of  service.  With  the  air-blast  attachment  oil  may  be 
freely  used  on  the  commutator,  and  the  wear  of  its  segments  and  of  the 
brushes  then  amounts  to  almost  nothing. 


10 


0th.  The  generator  re<iuires  less  attention  to  keep  in  order  than  any 
other,  and  with  tlie  automatic  regulator  attached  its  power  is  adapted  to 
the  nuniher  of  lights  it  is  desired  to  maintain. 

10th.  There  is  little  noise  or  hum  produced  during  running,  so  often 
an  ol)jectionable  feature  of  other  generators. 

11th.  The  wearing  in  the  boxes  is  reduced  to  a minimum  b}’  the 
lightness  and  balance  ol*  the  revolving  parts. 

12th.  The  thoroughness  of  insulation  of  all  its  parts,  where  needed. 

13th.  The  replaceability  and  interchangeability  of  its  important  parts. 

14th.  The  freedom  from  risk  of  short  circuits;  the  potentials  being 
so  distributed  as  to  secure  this  result. 


THE  ATR-BLAST  SPAEK-COXTROLLER. 


By  an  invention  of  the  greatest  value,  protected  by  bottom  patents. 
Prof.  Thomson  has  provided  a complete  solution  of  the  problem  of  con- 
trolling the  sparking  or  flashing  liable  to  be  so  troublesome  at  the  com- 
mutators of  all  dynamo-machines.  This  invention  consists  in  forcing  a 
thin  and  forcible  jet  of  air  square  against  the  ends  of  the  brushes  where 
they  bear  on  the  commutator  segments.  With  this  attachment  there  is 
no  difticulty  in  taking  oil’  from  a single  narrow  commutator  a high  poten- 
tial current  for  sixty  or  more  lights  in  one  circuit,  and  its  use  permits  oil 
to  be  applied  with  great  freedom  to  the  commutator,  thus  almost  com- 
pletely doing  away  with  the  wearing  out  of  the  brushes  and  com- 
mutator. With  this  improvement  on  a machine  the  brushes  have  been 
known  to  endure  nearly  three  months’  use  without  trimming. 


B 


11 


ELECTRIC  ARC  LAMPS. 


The  followiiiii  styles  and  iialtcriis  of  arc  lamps,  each  adapted  to  par- 
ticular uses  or  locations,  arc  provided.  They  are  covered  by  patents  of 
Elilui  Thomson,  assigned  to  the  Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Co. : 

THE  THOMSON  STANDARD  LAMP,  for  factories,  mills, 
foundries,  depots,  freisrht-yards,  streets,  etc.,  etc. 

THE  STANDARD  DOUBLE  LAMP,  for  all-night  use. 

The  steady  and  quiet  burning  of  the  Thomson  Arc  Lamps  — 
a fact  at  present  well  recognized — renders  their  use  practicable  and 
advantageous,  on  the  score  of  beauty  and  economy,  in  theatres  and  con- 
cert halls,  where  they  have  been  frequently  applied  with  the  most 
satisfactory  results. 

The  THOMSON  DIVIDED  ARC  LAMP  marks  a great  ad- 
vance in  arc  lighting.  It  supplies  a light  of  moderate  candle-power, 
for  locations  where  a 2000-candle  power  lamp  gives  more  light  than 
can  be  economically  utilized.  This  divided  arc  lamp  is  especially  suited 
for  factory  and  mill  use,  where  looms  and  other  tall  machines  are  liable 
to  be  so  closely  placed  as  to  make  a comparatively  large  number  of  lamps 
advantageous  for  avoiding  shadows.  Nearly  twice  as  many  of  these 
lamps  can  be  supplied  by  a given  expenditure  of  power  and  dynamo  ca- 
pacity as  of  the  standard  lamps. 

The  THOMSON  FOCUSSING  LAMP,  shown  in  the  cut,  con- 
tains several  features  peculiar  to  it,  by  which  it  is  admirably  adapted 
for  maintaining  the  arc  or  light  focus  constant  in  position  during  burn- 
ing. Hoadlights  for  steamers,  and  search  lamps,  consisting  of 
our  focussing  lamps  and  proper  reflectors  and  attachments  which  we  pro- 
vide, are  in  constant  demand.  They  are  substantial  and  reliable. 

The  lanqis  above  described  are  furnished  with  all  appliances  desir- 
able for  safety  or  convenience,  such  as  switches,  automatic  safety  de- 
vices, etc.  Their  reliability  and  constancy  are  owing  to  their  being 
without  clock-work,  and  without  dash-pots  with  liquids  in  them,  as  also 
to  the  care  and  study  of  details  given  lo  the  requirements  of  a practi- 
cally perfect  arc  light.  They  are  automatically  extinguished  when  the 
carbons  arc  sutliciently  consumed.  They  arc  self-adjusting  in  all  respects, 
not  requiring  expert  attention. 

These  lami)s  are  of  plain,  yet  neat  and  substantial  design,  and  do 
not  need  readjustment  after  leaving  the  factory. 

Lamps,  when  used  in  situations  where  they  are  liable  to  be  exposed 
to  the  weather,  are  provided  with  protecting  hoods  above  them. 


STANDAIM)  I. AMT. 


DOUIJLK  LAMl*. 


13 


THE  ORNAMENTAL  LAMP,  jllustrati'il,  iimkes  a liandsonie 
souroe  of  liglit  for  olllces,  tine  stores,  <rniin<;-lialls,  lecture-halls, 
churches,  etc.  These  are  furnished  double  as  well  as  single. 


01!N.\MK.Nr.M.  LAMP. 


u 


THE  AUTOMATIC  CUR li EXT  REGULATOR. 

THE  AUTOMATIC  REGULATOR  is  lui  attaclunciit  of  simple 
constnietioii  wliicli  is  sccureil  to  tlie  maehiiie  and  adjusts  the  current 
to  a standard  amount,  rejiardless  of  the  nnmbcr  of  lam|)s  l)ein<;  at  any 
time  used.  It  serves  also  to  compensate  for  changes  in  the  speed 
of  the  generator  due  to  unsteady  power,  so  that  the  lights  may  be 
retained  steady  and  of  normal  size,  even  though  the  motive  power  does 


FOt'fSSINC  I..VM1’. 


15 


not  furnish  a constant  speed.  It  serves  further  to  so  adjust  the  com- 
mutator of  the  machine,  that  any  injury  due  to  faulty  adjustineuts 
made  l)y  unskilled  attendants,  is  completely  obviated.  It  is  especially 
valuable  as  a safeguard  to  the  machine  and  lamps  in  case  of  any  accident 


to  tlie  wires  or  short  circuiting  of  the  machine,  and  adds  much  to  the 
security  against  lire.  By  its  use  the  lines  are  supplied  with  a standard 
current,  and  lights  may  be  interchanged  from  circuit  to  circuit  without 
readjustment. 


COXTKOI.l.EU-MAGXr.T. 


Tlic  current  regulator  consists  es- 
sentially of  a delicate  contact  control- 
ling magnet  placed  in  the  line  or  main 
circuit,  governing  tlie  action  of  a sec- 
ond electro-magnet  which  moves  the 
commutator  brushes  to  positions  of 
practically  constant  current.  The 
operation  is  very  simple,  without  com- 
plexity or  uncertainty.  In  these  re- 
spects it  is  unlike  similar  devices 
appearing  in  other  systems,  at  recent 
dates,  notwithstanding  that  such  regu- 
lators arc  covered  by  the  Thomson- 
Ilouston  Patents. 


16 


THOMSON  PATENT  DISTRIBUTION  SWITCH. 

This  valuable  api)liance  enables  the  lights  in  a mill  to  be  controlled 
from  a central  point  so  as  to  allow  groups  of  lights  to  be  extinguished 


DisTniiu'Tiox  swircu. 


and  relighted  at  will,  or  exchanged  from  the  circuit  of  one  generator  to 
that  of  another,  without  disturbing  the  circuit  wires.  The  switch  is 
placed  near  the  generators,  and  is  conveniently  given  in  charge  of  the 
attendant.  Shouhl  the  l)asement  of  a mill  require  to  be  lighted  at  an 
earlier  hour  than  other  portions  of  the  mill,  the  attendant  adjusts  his 
switch  accordingly,  and  may  add  the  other  lights  at  any  subseiiuent  time. 
In  like  manner  should  it  l)e  desired  to  extinguish  a group  of  lights  in  a 
certain  room  at  any  given  hour,  the  attendant  can  do  so  at  his  switch 
without  inconvenience.  .Many  applications  under  varied  conditions  will 
suggest  themselves.  The  current  is  absolutely  cut  off  from  the 
lights,  and  line-wire  thrown  out  of  use  l)y  the  use  of  the  switch.  On 
street  circuits,  worked  liy  ligliting  com]ianics.  it  is  modilied  to  enable 
lights  in  an  y l)nilding  to  l)e  al)solutely  ciU-olf.  so  that  the  unused  wires 
ari'  -‘il.'ad"  wires  for  tlic  time  being,  tlius  completely  fullilling  the  re- 


17 


(|uiiH‘nieiits  of  the  boaril  of  uiulcr\vriti.'rs.  'I'hc  aclviiiitajres  of  the  switch 
liavc  l)ec‘ii  fully  tested  by  loiijt  |)racUcal  use.  'I’his  switch  is  also  con- 
structed, wlien  needed,  to  admit  of  tlie  sudden  transfer  of  a circuit  of 
lijtlits,  more  or  less  in  numl)er,  from  the  circuit  of  one  machine  or  set  of 
machines  to  another  circuit  of  machines  and  lamps  while  running,  and 
without  ilisturbing  the  operation  or  even  momentarily  extinguishing  any 
of  the  lamps. 

We  also  are  iirepared  to  supidy  several  approved  designs  of  central 
station  switch-boards  of  50,  100,  150,  and  200  lights  capacity,  or  over. 

LIGHTNING  ARRESTEES.  F or  local  lighting  companies, 
protection  is  sometimes  necessary  against  danger  from  lightning.  Such 
protection  is  alfortlcd  in  a novel  way  by  Thomson’s  new  Lightning 
Arrester,  a simple  and  ctl'ective  device. 

CUT-OUTS.  We  make  an  improved  and  simple  form  of  cut-out 
for  use  at  points  where  line-wires  enter  buildings.  This  cut-out  works 
without  spark,  and  with  perfect  safety  while  its  insulating  surfaces  are 
ample  in  extent. 

GALVANOMETERS.  We  also  make  galvanometers  for  the  use 
of  local  companies  and  experts  in  measuring  and  testing  the  current 
from  dynamo  machines. 

THE  THOMSON-RICE  INVARIABLE  AMMETER  is  a 

very  useful  instrument  for  standardizing  currents,  regulators,  etc.  De- 
pending not  upon  terrestrial  magnetism,  or  that  of  so-called  permanent 
magnets,  but  solely  uiion  the  relative  magnetic  powers  of  two  electro- 
magnetic coils,  its  indicators  may  be  relied  upon  at  all  times. 

LINE  WIRE,  CARBONS,  HANGING  BOARDS,  HOODS, 
INSULATORS,  etc.  The  Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Co.  is  prepared 
to  supply  local  companies,  and  private  consumers,  with  all  kinds  of 
electrical  supplies  used  in  the  installation  and  maintenance  of  electric 
lighting  plants. 

HAND  DYNAMO.  Pliysicists  and  lecturers  in  many  depart- 
ments of  science,  will  welcome  the  ajjpearance  of  a hand  dynamo  suit- 
able for  the  laboratory  and  capable  of  working  a small  arc  light,  or 
several  incandescent  lamps,  or  producing  other  cllects  often  reiiuired  in 
practical  work  or  lectures.  The  machine  is  of  very  great  power  for 
its  size  and  speed  of  running.  It  is  also  an  admirable  electric  motor,  and 
has  delivered  over  one  horse  power. 


18 


ELECTRIC  MOTORS.  The  electric  transmission  of  power  has 
for  a long  time  been  regarded  by  the  foremost  practical  electricians  as 
perfectly  feasible.  As  a means  of  distributing  motive  power,  the  electric 
motor  seems  destined  soon  to  come  into  extensive  use.  The  results  thus 
far  obtained  give  promise  of  great  success  in  the  future.  The  Thomson- 
Houston  Electric  Co.  is  provided  with  ample  facilities  for  building 
motors  of  various  sizes  to  run  economically  upon  arc-light  or  other 
circuits. 

ARC  LAMPS  IN  MULTIPLE  SERIES.  It  is  believed  that 
this  is  the  first  time  arc  lights  running  in  mutiple  series  have  ever  been 
used  in  public.  Prof.  Thomson’s  discovery  and  invention  for  making 
this  great  desideratum  an  accomplished  fact  illustrates  his  genius  as  an 
electrician.  By  the  use  of  this  apparatus  arc  lights  of  totally  different 
powers  may  be  run  from  a single  circuit,  some  in  series,  and  some  in  mul- 
tiple arc  or  in  multiple  series.  Divisions  and  re-divisions,  as  well  as 
reunions  of  arc  circuits,  are  easily  practicable. 


INSURANCE. 


The  Thomson-IIouston  system  of  electric  lighting  has  been  examined 
by  the  agents  of  insurance  companies  and  pronounced  perfectly  satisfac- 
tory in  fulfilling  all  the  requirements  laid  down  by  them,  and  all  lines  and 
apparatus  put  up  by  the  Thomson-Houston  Electric  Company  conform  to 
insurance  rules.  The  safeguards  provided  by  this  company  in  the  way 
of  automatic  regulation  of  the  current  to  meet  every  demand,  cannot  be 
equalled  by  any  other  company. 

All  our  apparatus  has  stood  the  test  of  continued  daily  practical  use, 
and  it  is  built  and  tested  under  highly  skilled  superintendence. 


19 


SUMMARY  OF  WELL-KNOWN  FACTS  CONCERN- 
ING THE  THOMSON-HOUSTON  SYSTEM. 


The  'riioiusoii-Houston  system  is  automatic  and  sclf-re<;ulatiiig. 
T’licse  highly  essential  and  valuable  features  are  possessed  by  no  other 
Company  in  existence. 

Its  lights  can  be  turned  on  or  off  at  will  and  without  attention  to  the 
tlymimo,  tlius  etfectiug  a corresponding  saving  of  power.  This  is  not 
pO'Sible  with  any  other  systsm. 

The  Thomson-IIouston  system  has  in  every  case  where  it  lias  exhib- 
ited in  competition  with  others,  received  the  I'lnsr  ritizE  for  every  valua- 
ble feature.  This  cannot  be  said  of  any  other  Company  in  the 
world. 

.\t  the  great  Industrial  Exposition  at  Cincinnati,  in  the  autumn  of 
1883,  it  received  the  kiust  iuuzk  for  best  system  of  arc  lighting.  At  the 
great  e.xliibition  lield  at  Louisville,  the  same  year,  it  received  the  first 
Mun.vL  for  BEST  .\uc  i.iGiiT.  At  the  exhibition  held  at  San  Francisco  in 
the  summer  of  1884,  it  received  the  first  goi.d  med.vl.  At  the  most 
exhaustive  competitive  test  of  the  various  prominent  systems  ever  made 
by  a city,  given  at  Quincy,  111.,  its  merits  were  fully  recoyiiized  by  a 
combined  committee  of  mcrchauts,  mechanics,  and  experts.  The  result 
was  tlie  award  to  it  of  the  contract  for  lighting  tlie  city.  At  the  great 
International  Electrical  Exhibition  at  Philadelphia  (at  which  no  awards 
were  made),  in  Octoiier,  1884.  its  lights  were  pronounced  by  the  *•  Amer- 
ican Gas  Light  Journal,”  a natural  enemy  of  electric  Uyhtiny  in  yeneral,  to 

BE  THE  FINEST  .\N1)  STE.VDIEsr  OF  .VLI.  THE  SYSTEMS  EXHIBITED. 

In  a letter  from  Prof.  Thurston,  of  Hoboken,  to  the  .\rmington  & 
Sims  Engine  Co.,  reporting  his  tests  of  power  recpiired  in  running 
Thomson-IIouston  standard  arc  lights,  he  stated  that  with  sixty  lights 
running  from  two  dynamos,  the  power  was  but  7-10  horse-power  per 
light  of  2.000  C.  P.  each. 

From  a direct  comparison  of  the  Thomson-IIouston  with  other 
apparatus  at  the  Cincinnati  Exposition  of  1883,  as  to  the  average  light 
in  all  directions  measured,  and  the  relative  illuminating  power  per  unit 
yf  energy,  the  jury  stated  that  “ there  is  a dilference  of  more  than 
forty  per  cent  in  favor  of  the  Thomson-Houston.”  [See 
Science,  ^'ol.  111..  No.  54.  p.  184.] 


At  no  city  in  tlie  Uniteil  States  lias  it  ever  competed  for  city  business 
tliat  it  lias  not  iieen  awarded  tlie  city  contract.  This  cannot  be  said 
of  any  other  Company  in  the  United  States- 

In  many  cities  in  various  parts  of  tlie  United  States,  particulars  con- 
cerning which  can  be  had  by  application,  entire  plants  of  other  systems 
have  been  thrown  out  and  the  Tliomson-IIouston  installed  in  their  place, 
thus  fully  corroborating  what  is  claimed  for  it,  viz.  : that  it  is  cheaper  to 
runciiASK  Thomson-llonston  lamps  and  dynamos  than  to  operate  any 
other  system  .vs  .v  Git  r. 

The  Tliomson-IIouston  Electric  Company,  during  the  past  year,  has 
installed  by  far  a greater  number  of  local  company  plants,  in  different 
parts  of  the  United  States,  tii.vx  .vi.i.  otiiku  kliictkic  i.ioiitixg  com- 
I’AXiKS  coMiuxED.  In  proof  of  which,  attention  is  called  to  the  accom- 
panying list  of  local  companies  operating  its  system,  nearly  all  of  which 
have  been  organized  irithin  the  past  eUjhteen  months. 

For  testimony  with  reference  to  the  extraordinary  merits  of  this  sj's- 
tem,  we  are  permitted  to  refer  to  such  eminent  and  trustworthy  author- 
ities as  I’rof.  Sylvanus  Thompson,  of  England  ; Howland  11.  Hazard,  Esq., 
president  of  the  Gramme  Electric  Company,  of  New  York:  the  Electrical 
llevicw,  of  New  York;  the  Electrical  \Yorld,  of  New  York,  or  to  any  of 
the  local  companies  using  its  system,  and  especially  to  those  that  have 
been  the  longest  operating  it,  such  as  the  Kawsmouth  Electric  Light  Com- 
pany, of  Kansas  City,  Mo.,  operating  nearly  300  lights;  the  Tliomson- 
IIouston  Electric  Light  Company,  of  St.  Louis,  operating  300  lights  ; the 
Merchants’  Electric  Light  and  Power  Company,  of  Boston,  operating  GOO 
lights;  the  Syracuse  Electric  Light  Comiiaiiy,  operating  250  lights;  the 
New  Haven  Electric  Comiiany,  200  lights;  the  Worcester  Electric  Light 
Company,  250  lights ; and  the  Pacific  Thomson-Houston  Electric  Light 
Company,  150  lights. 


THE  INCANDESCENT  DISTRIBUTING  SYSTEM. 
INCANDESCENT  LIGHTS  IN  ARC  CIRCUITS. 

We  have  developed  and  are  introducing  a system  of  Incandescent 
Electric  Lighting  by  which  incandescent  lights  can  be  successfully  and 
economically  run  from  the  same  circuit  with  are  lights.  Hitherto  a po.s- 
sibility  that  the  breakage  of  one  or  two  Incandescent  lamps  of  a group 
might  result  in  a further  breakage  and  disruption  of  an  entire  circuit  has 
])revented  Lighting  Comiianies  from  a general  use  of  auy  such  method, 
although  some  attemjits  have  been  made.  Our  new  improvements  pro- 
vide perfect  safeguards  against  any  trouble  from  accidental  breakage  of 
a lamp  or  other  unforeseen  cause.  By  an  automatic  device  in  the  arc  light 
current  a grouji  of  eight  incandescent  lights,  of  twelve  to  sixteen  candle 
power  each,  can  be  substituted  in  place  of  one  arc  light.  .Vll  the  lights 


•21 


in  iiii_v  ijroup  can  he  used  at  once,  or  any  desired  iininber  of  tliem  can  be 
extinguished  at  iileasure  as  easily  as  gas  lights.  The  device  acts  by  elec- 
trical means,  being  entirely  independent  of  clock-work,  and  hence  attbials 
no  chance  for  a careless  attendant  to  i)rodnce  disaster  by  neglecting  to 
wind  up  a inechanisin.  tVe  speak  of  a <jroup  of  lights,  but  it  should  be 
understood  that  the  lights  of  the  group  can  be  scattered  about  at  pleasure, 
and  may  be  in  various  rooms  if  desired.  It  is  also  possible  to  have  a 
(lilferent  number  of  incaiulesceuts  in  place  of  one  arc  light,  by  adapting 
the  number  to  the  candle  power  reciuired  in  each  lamp.  Any  number  of 
groups  of  incandescent  lights  within  the  power  of  a machine  can  be  used 
on  one  main  circuit,  or  a part  of  these  groups  can  be  replaced  by  arc  lights. 

The  transfer  device,  by  which  the  current  is  distributed  to  a group 
of  incandescent  lights,  is  contained  in  a neat  box  that  can  be  placed  at 
any  convenient  part  of  the  circuit,  and  is  known  as  the  Thomson-Kice 
Incandescent  Distributor,  from  its  inventors,  who  have  designed  it  with 
a view  to  fultilling  all  conditions  of  ellectivcness  and  safety. 

In  this  connection  we  publish  the  following  letters:  — 

[copy.] 

PuoviDKNX'K,  R.  I.,  June  25,  1885. 

V.  .V.  Tiiom.vs,  Sup’t  Narragansett  Electric  Light  Co. 

Dear  Sir:  — The  incandescent  lights  of  the  Thomson-IIouston  system, 
as  run  from  distributing  boxes,  which  were  placed  in  our  store  some  time 
since,  has  given,  it  affords  tis  pleasure  to  say,  the  utmost  satisfaction 
since  their  being  started.  It  is  our  opinion  that  the  lights  are  fully  equal 
to  the  best  incandescent  lights  we  have  ever  seen.  They  seem  to  exactly 
fill  the  want  for  a good  incandescent  system  which  can  be  operated  at  a 
long  distance  from  the  central  station. 

Yours  truly, 

(Signed)  JAMES,  KENNEDY  & CO. 


Boston,  July  1st,  1885. 

Thomson-Hou.ston  Er.KCTiuc  Co. 

Gentlemen : — In  answer  to  your  inquiry,  we  desire  to  say  that  the 
plant  of  arc  and  incandescent  combined  of  the  Thomson-IIouston  system 
supplied  to  our  station  and  yards  by  the  Merchants’  Electric  Light  & 
Power  Company,  using  your  system  of  electric  lighting  in  Boston,  have 
given  admirable  satisfaction  since  they  started  and  appear  to  us  to  lie  just 
what  is  wanted  for  a combined  system  of  arc  and  incandescent.  We  can 
most  heartily  recommend  them  to  all  inquiries  for  a thoroughly  satisfac- 
tory system  of  incandescent  lighting. 

Very  sincerely  yours, 

J.  R.  KENDRICK,  Gen’l  Manager  Old  Colony  R.  R. 


(Signed) 


22 


ESTIMATED  DAILY  EXPENSE 

OF  OPERATIXG  IXSTALLATIOXS  OF  XIXETY,  ONE  IIUXDRED  AXD  EIGIITA', 
TWO  IIUXDRED  AXD  SEVEXTY,  AXD  THREE  HUXDRED 
AXD  SIXTY  ARC  LIGHT  PLANTS, 


These  estimates  of  tlailj'  running  expenses  arc  based  upon  the  supposi- 
tion that  the  liglits  are  to  be  supplied  an  average  of  eight  hours  per  night; 
in  cases  where  they  are  furnished  for  a shorter  time,  a saving  in  the  con- 
sumption of  carbons  and  fuel  would  be  efl’ected.  AVe  omit  the  item  of 
rent  from  the  operating  expenses  because  of  the  variation  in  prices  which 
exists  in  diflerent  cities;  it  can  very  easily  be  added,  however,  according 
to  the  amount  cliarged.  AVherever  available  water  power  can  be  obtained 
the  profits  of  the  enterprise  can  be  increased  to  the  extent  of  the  cost  of 
fuel  which  would  otherwise  be  used. 

COST  OF  OPERATING  A 90  ARC  LIGHT  PLANT  PER  DAY. 


Manager .$3  00 

Cierk • I 50 

Engineer 2 00 

Tliree  Assistants 3 00 

Carbons 4 00 

Fuel  (estimated) 5 40 

Taxes,  Insurance,  and  Telephone 80 

Depreciation  and  Repairs  . 1 50 

$21  20=  £4-5 


COST  OF  OPERATING  A 180  ARC  LIGHT  PLANT  PER  DAY. 


M.anager $3  50 

Clerk 2 00 

Engineer  and  Fireman 3 00 

Five  Assistants 5 00 

Carbons 8 00 

Fuel  (estimated) 10  80 

Taxes,  Insurance,  and  Telephone 1 50 

Depreciation  and  Repairs 3 00 


.S3G  80  = £7-7-6 


•23 


COST  OF  OFKKATIXG  A 270  ARC  LIGHT  I’LANT  I’ER  DAAL 


Manai;er 

Clerk 

Eiiijinecr  and  Two  Firemen 

Seven  Assistants . . 

Carltons 

Fuel  (estimated) 

Taxes,  Insurance,  and  'I'eleplione • . 

Depreciation  and  Repairs 


$4  00 
2 00 
4 00 
7 00 
12  00 
IC  20 


2 20 
4 50 

§51  90  = £10-7-11 


COST  OF  OPERATING  A 360  ARC  LIGHT  PLANT  PER  DAY. 


Manager 

Clerk 

Engineer 

Two  Firemen 

Eight  Assistants 

Carbons  

Fuel  (estimated) 

Taxes,  Insurance,  and  Telephone 
Depreciation  and  Repairs  .... 


155  00 

2 50 

3 00 
2 00 
8 00 

16  00 
21  60 


2 80 
6 00 

$66  90=£13-7-ll 


24 


TESTIMONIALS  FROM  LOCAL  COMPANIES  AND 
INDIVIDUALS  USING  THOMSON-HOUS- 
TON  APPARATUS. 


Mr.  William  Widlund,  to  whom  man}'  of  the  following  com- 
munications are  addressed,  having  been  granted  by  the  Peruvian 
Government  the  exclusive  right  of  introducing  electric  lights 
into  the  eight  principal  cities  of  that  country,  for  a period  of 
twenty  years,  came  to  the  United  States  with  a view  of  thor- 
oughly investigating  the  various  systems  of  lighting  here.  After 
five  months  spent  in  visiting  different  cities,  and  making  an  e.x- 
haustive  investigation  of  other  systems,  he  was  forced  to  the 
conclusion  that  the  Thomson-Houston  light  was  superior  to  any 
in  the  market,  and  consequently  the  proper  one  for  him  to  adopt. 
Acting  upon  this  decision,  Mr.  Widlund  immediately  entered 
into  arrangements  with  us  to  furnish  all  the  electric  lights  for 
Peru  for  the  full  period  of  twenty  years. 

These  letters  are  confined  strictly  to  facts,  and  being  an  un- 
biased expression  of  opinion  on  the  part  of  those  using  our 
lights,  are  the  best  evidence  that  can  be  offered  respecting  the 
reputation  and  standing  of  the  Thomson-Houston  system. 

Syuacush  Ei.kctkic  Light  axd  Powkk  Co. 

Syr.acuse,  N.  Y.,  March  26,  1885. 

Mr.  William  Widhnul. 

Dear  Sir:  Yours  of  the  24th  iiist.  is  at  hand,  and  would  say  in  reply 
that  we  are  so  well  pleased  with  the  operation  and  manj'  points  of  com- 
mercial advantage  connected  with  the  Thomson-Houston  system,  that  we 
take  pleasure  in  answering  your  inquiries  at  length,  hoping  we  may  save 
you  the  trouble  of  unsatisfactory  and  expensive  experiment. 

\Ye  have  tried  in  Syracuse  most  of  the  systems  of  electric  lighting  now 
in  use  in  the  United  States,  including  the  “ Brush,”  “ Fuller,”  “ Parker,” 
or  “Kemington,”  “ Sperry,”  etc.,  none  of  which  gave  satisfactory  results 
either  commercially  or  as  regards  steadiness  and  purity  of  light. 

The  Thomson-Houston  was  introduced  here  at  a period  when  everybody 
had  become  disgusted  with  the  flickering  and  failures  of  electric  lights, 
and  at  once  began  to  grow  in  public  favor  until  their  strongest  compet- 
itor, the  Brush-Swan  Company,  ybiul/y  icithclrew. 

We  have  now  a contract  for  lighting  the  city  for  three  years,  which 
was  awarded  us  at  higher  jirices  than  our  competitors,  after  a thorough 
investigation  of  .systems  in  use  in  other  cities.  In  regard  to  this  matter 


25 


I should  like  to  have  you  write  to  Mayor  Thomas  Hyan,  who  made  very 
thoroiiffh  work  of  the  investigation. 

As  to  the  satisfaction  it  gives  our  mercantile  customers,  we  have  many 
who  depend  upon  us  entirely  for  light,  ami  use  no  other  illuminant,  at  the 
same  time  paying  us  from  twenty  to  thirty  per  cent.  m()re  than  they  for- 
merly paid  for  gas,  though  of  course  they  get  much  more  and  a better 
light.  These,  together  with  our  city  lights,  yield  a large  net  income, 
which  we  are  putting  into  ailditional  i)lant  of  the  'I’homson-IIouston  sys- 
tem, which  is,  [lerhaps,  as  good  e\  idence  as  can  he  given  of  our  confi- 
dence in  the  system. 

In  regard  to  eeouomy  of  running  e.\|)euse,  we  are  satisllcd  that  no  sys- 
tem ean  be  properiy  run  with  less  attendance  or  power,  or  so  little  repairs 
or  danger  of  accidental  interrui)tion  of  the  liglits. 

If  time  will  permit,  you  might  communicate  with  our  vice-president, 
Mr.  Butler,  who  lost  money  on  the  “ Fuller”  system,  or  Mr.  W.  K.  Fierce, 
who  is  well  acapiainted  with  tiie  “ Brush  ” scheme. 

If  there  is  any  further  information  you  desire  which  is  in  our  power  to 
give,  we  shall  he  pleased  to  assist  yon. 

Yours  respectfully, 

F.  II.  Lkon.vud,  Manager. 

K.vxs.\s  City  Ei.ecthic  Light  Comp.vny, 

K.vxs.is  City,  Mo.,  March  30,  1885. 

IF)m.  U’klliind,  Boston,  J\/ass. 

Dear  Sir:  Your  favor  dated  March  25th,  1885,  is  received,  and 
it  affords  us  much  gratilication  to  he  able  to  speak  in  high  commendation 
of  the  Thomson-IIouston  system. 

We  have  been  operating  tiieir  apparatus  for  three  years,  and  have 
thoroughly  tested  its  clliciency,  and  have  had  much  opportunity  aiui  occa- 
sion to  compare  it  with  other  systems,  and  we  are  satisfied  it  is  the  best 
arc-light  system  in  this  country. 

The  light  gives  universal  satisfaction  to  our  [latrons.  The  machinery 
is  efficient  and  reliable,  ami  the  most  economical  to  operate  of  any  of 
which  we  have  knowledge.  Our  service  in  June  was  55,800  hours,  and 
cost  in  production,  for  steam  power,  dynamos,  and  lamps,  .02588  cents 
per  hour,  i.  e.,  per  lami)  [icr  hour. 

The  Thomson-IIouston  Com])any  is  energetic  and  progressive,  and 
while  they  have  the  best  arc-light  system  in  the  market,  they  are  con- 
stantly improving  and  developing  it  in  such  directions  as  tend  to  reduce 
operating  expenses  and  promote  efficiency  and  economy. 

AVe  have  always  found  the  gentlemen  who  manage  the  business  of  the 
company  honorable  and  generous  in  their  dealings,  and  ever  ready  to 
assist  us  in  extending  our  business,  and  we  can  cordially  commend  them 
to  your  confidence. 

Should  there  be  any  special  inquiry  which  you  might  desire  to  make, 
it  will  afford  us  pleasure  to  answer  any  questions  you  may  ask. 


26 


Of  course  we  naturally  feel  a pride  in  the  system  of  our  adoption, 
and  an  interest  in  its  extension  and  reputation ; and  while  we  have  this 
patriotie  vanity,  we  also  feel  secure  in  our  wannest  recommendation  of 
the  Thomson-Houston  system.  It  will  bear  the  closest  comparison  with 
any  other  system,  and  vindicate  its  superiority  every  time. 

I trust  this  will  reach  j’ou,  and  beg  to  subscribe  mj'self,  in  behalf  of  the 
Kansas  City  Electric  Light  Company, 

Your  humble  servant, 

I.  W.  Phillips. 


Tiiic  New  II.wex  Electric  Light  Comp.\xy, 

New  Havex,  Ct.,  March  27,  1885. 

To  Mr.  William  Widlund,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir  : Yours  of  the  24th  is  just  received.  AYe  are  now  using  the 
Thomson-Houston  system  for  street  lighting,  also  for  commercial  lights. 

AA'e  can  say  that  it  is  simply  perfect.  We  formerly  used  the  United 
States,  or  the  New  England  AA^eston  system,  which  after  a trial  of  one  and 
a half  years,  we  discarded,  as  it  was  a poor  light,  very  unsteady,  expen- 
sive to  run,  and  there  was  so  much  wear  and  tear,  that  it  wrecked  our 
company. 

Tliose  of  us  who  had  some  faith  in  electric  lighting,  formed  a new 
company,  using  the  Thomson-Houston  Co.’s  system. 

AA^e  started  our  lights  Dec.  1st,  1883,  and  have  earned  over  sixteen 
percent,  net  per  year  on  our  capital. 

I can  also  say  that  before  we  took  hold  of  this  sj'stem,  I personally 
examined  every  system  in  the  country,  going  into  ever}'  State  east  of  the 
Mississippi  river  on  a pleasure  trip,  and  whenever  I remained  over  night 
in  a city  where  electric  lights  were  used,  I spent  my  evenings  in  their 
stations  getting  all  the  information  possible  in  regard  to  cost  of  run- 
ning, etc. 

I found  the  actual  cost  to  produce  lights  with  the  Tliomson-Houston 
system  was  about  25  per  cent,  less  than  by  any  other,  and  the  lights  were 
much  better. 

AA'e  think  it  is  perfection,  as  do  all  our  customers. 

It  is  the  only  system  which  I have  seen  where  the  lights  burn  without 
a flicker. 

Should  your  business  bring  you  this  way,  I would  very  much  like  to 
have  you  call;  we  will  gladly  give  you  all  our  experience  and  will  show 
you  a nice  station. 

Very  truly  yours, 

F.  A.  Gilbert,  Pres. 


Mi'NicirAi.  Ki,kcti!ic  Light  Co. 

Kxc'CiUive  Ollice.s,  1(4  Bho.vdwav, 
BiiooKi.YN,  N,  Y.,  March  2(;tli,  188."). 
William  Widlund,  Eki/.,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir:  In  reply  to  yours  of  the  24th  inst.  in  reference  to  onr 
company  using  the  Thoinson-IIouston  electric  system,  and  witli  what 
results,  wonhl  say  that  the  system  was  selected  by  our  company  after 
having  spent  much  time  and  money  investigating  the  various  lights 
brought  to  our  notice,  and  we  can  cordially  and  frankly  say  that  we  have 
never  had  cause  to  regret  such  selection,  for  in  the  matter  of  steadiness 
of  light,  economical  and  satisfactory  working  order  of  dynamo,  lamps, 
and  tlie  marvelous  certainty  of  the  Automatic  Regulator,  we  think  that 
no  light  yet  presented  to  the  public  can  compare  with  it.  We  have  been 
running  one  hundred  and  forty  lights  from  an  old-style  Armstrong  engine, 
which  is  used  every  day  furnishing  power  to  a large  factory,  and  liave 
only  lost  twenty  minutes  in  six  months  run;  said  delay  was  caused  by  a 
(Ire  in  said  factory. 

We  are  now  building  a new  station,  sixty  by  one  hundred  feet,  with 
five  entrincs  and  facilities  for  six  hundred  lights,  and  shall  most  certainly 
give  the  order  to  the  Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Co.  for  all  electrical 
apparatus  needed  to  complete  the  same. 

You  will  find  that  it  will  cost  tjou  less  to  run  their  system  than  any 
other  in  the  market,  and  that  the  saving  in  tlie  i)oint  of  attendance  and 
power  used,  and  repairs  in  lamps  and  dynamos,  would  amount  to  a very 
large  interest  on  the  entire  cost  of  plant.  The  Tliomson-IIonston  Electric 
Company  and  their  people  were  entire  strangers  to  ns  when  we  were 
investigating  the  matter  of  choice  of  systems,  Init  have  found  them  to  be 
as  good  as  their  system,  w'hich  is  saying  a great  deal,  wlien  we  are  of  the 
opinion  that  it  is  the  best  in  the  world.  If  yon  are  in  the  neighborhood 
of  our  city,  would  be  pleased  to  have  you  examine  the  station,  &c. 

Respectfully, 

CiiAUi.Ks  Cooi’KU,  President. 

St.  Joskth  Ei.?:ctuic  Light  Co. 

St.  Joskph  Mo  , March  2,  1885. 

Wm.  Widlund,  Boston,  Mass. 

l>ear  sir:  Replying  to  your  favor  of  Feb.  2()th,  will  say  that  w'c 
are  using  the  Thomson-IIouston  system  of  electric  lighting,  which  I 
think  cannot  be  equalled  by  any  other  .system  in  the  country.  There  are 
some  features  in  this  system  which  make  it  “ par  excellence  ” over  any 
other  system  within  my  knowledge.  The  horse-power  consumed  per 
light  being  very  low,  about  % horse-power  for  2,000  candle-i)Ower  lamps, 
and  about  for  the  divided  arc.  The  automatic  regulation  is  a feature 
that  can  hardly  be  estimated  in  dollars  and  cents.  It  thoroughly  and 
completely  protects  the  machines  and  lamps  from  accidents  by  a short 


28 


circuit.  Any  number  of  lamp.s  may  be  turned  on  or  off  without  any  atten- 
tion whatever  beins  given  tlie  machine  by  tlie  attendant.  As  lamps  are 
turned  off,  tlie  motive  power  consumed  is  corresiiondingly  reduced.  It 
is  my  experience  that  the  liglits  give  more  universal  satisfaction  to  sub- 
scribers than  any  other  system  with  which  I am  acquainted.  They  burn 
perfectly  noiseless  and  are  no  trouble  to  keep  in  repair. 

This  company  earned  five  per  cent,  quarterly  last  year.  Three  of 
tliese  dividends  were  paid  in  cash  to  the  stockholders.  The  last  one, 
payable  January  1st,  was  set  aside.  You  will  observe  that  we  earned 
twenty  per  cent  last  year,  fifteen  of  which  was  paid  in  cash. 

Yours  very  respectfully, 

W.  C.  STEW-utT,  Supt. 

Amkric.vx  Electric  .\nd  Ili.imix.\tixg  Comi>.\xy, 

TJ7  CoxGREss  Street, 

Bostox,  April  1st,  1885. 

William  Widlund,  Esq.,  care  of  Matthew  Crosby,  92  State  St.,  Boston. 

Dear  Sir:  In  answer  to  your  Inquiry  of  the  25th  nit.,  addressed  to 
the  Merchants’  E.  L.  & P.  Co.,  regarding  the  Thomson-Houston  system, 
would  say : ^Ye  send  you  by  to-day’s  mail  a copy  of  illustrated  pam- 
phlet, which  will  give  you  our  views  on  the  subject. 

Yours  truly, 

Americ.vx  E.  & I.  Co., 

per  S.  E. 

The  following  are  extracts  from  the  pamphlet  referred  to  in  the  fore- 
going letter : — 

“ The  company,  although  organized  in  June,  1882,  did  not  really  get 
to  work  until  early  in  the  following  winter.  It  obtained  from  the  Thom- 
son-IIouston  Electric  Company  a lease  or  license  to  operate  the  Thorason- 
llouston  system  in  the  city  of  Boston.  It  was  the  hope  and  ambition  at 
the  time  to  establish  a lighting  system  in  the  city  of  Boston,  and  in  time 
to  share  the  business  of  the  city  with  the  Brush' and  Weston  companies, 
already  established. 

“ The  excellence  of  the  light,  its  pure  white  color,  its  steadiness  and 
comparative  economy  of  production,  began  to  attract  very  general  public 
attention,  and  applications  were  received  from  several  New  England  cities 
asking  the  company  to  establish  and  operate  plants  therein.  Of  the  vari- 
ous systems  of  electric  lighting  which  have  striven  for  public  favor,  it  is 
our  proud  boast  to  say  that  the  American  system,  based  on  the  Thomson- 
Houston  inventions,  has  proved  itself  to  be  not  only  the  best  but  the  most 
economical  method  of  producing  and  supplying  the  electric  light.  In 
lighting,  as  in  all  other  things,  the  [lublic  want  to  get  the  best  and  the 
most  for  their  money,  and  they  are  keen  enough  and  shrewd  enough  to 
know  when  these  conditions  are  best  fullilled  by  any  electric  lighting 
system.  The  gratifying  progress  of  the  .\merican  system,  therefore,  is 
not  only  an  imiicatiou  of  its  superiority  over  the  other  systems  in  use,  but 
its  shows  that  it  is  also  the  most  economical.  Our  success  has  been  the 
success  of  competition.  It  has  not  been  lightly  won.  By  the  new  system 
of  incandescent  lighting  devised  by  Prof.  Elihu  Thomson,  by  which  the 


29 


same  electric  current  can  he  niaclc  to  operate  liotli  arc  and  incandescent 
lani|)s,  the  Ainei'ican  system  can  li”:lit  not  only  streets,  halls,  stores,  fac- 
tories, and  larice  spaces,  hut  the  incaudesceut  lamps  can  he  carried  at  the 
same  time  into  every  place  where  ,i;as  or  kerosene  is  now  the  illuminant.’ 

This  company  are  now  ruiinina:  IhS  arc  liirhts  from  tlieir  central 
station,  and  during  the  past  year  have  displaced  i:52  Weston  and  4,5  Brush 

lights.  

Thu  IIaimkoui)  Ki.kctiuc  Light  Co. 

II.vuTFoni),  CoNX.,  Feh.  27,  1885. 

ir»i.  jndhi/id,  Esq.,  Boston. 

Dear  Sir:  In  reply  to  an  impiiry  made  hi'  Mr.  Geo.  Widlund,  I will 
say  that  we  have  heen  using  the  Thomson-IIonston  system  for  about  two 
years,  and  now  consider  it  the  most  economical  system  for  electric  light- 
ing extant 

In  regard  to  paying  dividends  I wiii  say  th.at  we  have  expended  sev- 
eral thousand  dollars  on  construction  account,  and  tins  has  been  paid 
largelj'  from  the  receipts  of  the  liglits  now  running,  and  in  the  face  of 
that  we  are  ahie  now  to  declare  and  have  declared  a (luarterly  dividend 
payable  iMarch  1. 

In  conclusion  I will  say  that  we  consider  it  the  best  and  most  eco- 
nomical system  in  use. 

Yours  truly, 

F.  A.  Frkxch,  Supt. 


Citizens’  Ei.ecti!ic  Illuminating  Co. 

Brooklyn,  N.  Y.,  March  24,  1885. 

Mr.  Widlund,  08  State  St.,  Boston, 

Dear  Sir:  Your  letter  of  the  24th  received,  and  in  reply  would  beg 
to  say  tliat  the  Tliomson-Houston  system  of  lighting  was  introduced 
here  through  the  ell'orts  of  Messrs.  Pope,  Sewell  & Co.,  whose  card  we 
enclose.  The  members  of  this  linn  (one  half  owners  of  this  company), 
are  electrical  men  who  have  devoted  their  entire  business  life  to  elec- 
trical development,  commencing  as  far  back  as  1801  as  practical  opera- 
tors. I state  this  simply  to  show  that  it  is  reasonable  to  suppose  the  tirm 
was  fully  competent  to  judge  of  the  merits  of  the  different  systems. 

Tliis  tirm  before  introducing  the  Thomson-IIonston  system  here, 
fully  considered  the  various  systems,  and  adopted  the  Thomson-IIonston 
as  preferable  to  all  others  botli  in  matter  of  efliciency  and  economy. 
From  our  experience  here  and  from  the  information  we  receive  from 
various  sources,  we  believe  it  to  be  the  oidy  system  that  gives  a profit- 
able return  ujjon  the  investment,  and  that  is  wholly  satisfactory  to  cus- 
tomers. and  this  is  further  evidenced  by  tlie  fact  that  various  cities  and 
companies  have  thrown  out  at  great  loss  other  systems  and  adofited  this 
in  preference. 

You  can  establisii  this  fact  by  inquiry  in  New  Haven,  Hartford,  and 
other  cities.  I can  only  speak  favorably  of  the  system. 

Yours  truly, 


H.  W.  Pope,  President. 


30 


Ofi’ick  of  Thomsox-IIoustox  Ei.f;cthic  Light  axd  Powku  Co. 

814  Sixth  St.,  S.ackamkxto,  Cal.,  April  C,  1885. 

Mr.  \YiUiam  Wklluml,  Esq.,  Boston. 

Dear  Sir  : Yours  of  the  24tli  of  March  received,  and  I must  saj'  the 
Tliomson-IIoustoii  system  does  all  the  compau}'  claimed  for  it  when  I 
was  neirotiatiiia:. 

It  cost  considerable  more  for  extras  .tlian  I anticipated,  but  I am  satis- 
fied it  costs  the  Brush  people,  with  whom  we  are  competing,  quite  as 
mueh  and  more  for  repairs,  especially  to  armatures,  as  they  have  burned 
out  several  to  our  none. 

tVe  are  paid  about  twice  as  much  for  our  lights  as  the  Brush  Co.,  and 
in  a year  we  have  lost  but  one  customer.  It  costs  a little  more  to  run 
than  the  estimate,  but  coal  and  labor  are  not  so  cheap  here  as  in  the  East. 

I spent  two  years  time  in  investigating  the  various  systems  of  lighting, 
and  one  j’ear  ago  concluded  the  Tliomson-Houston  system  to  be  the  best. 
Our  company  purchased  that  system,  and  have  not  up  to  this  time  ex- 
l)res.sed  a regret,  and  are  fully  satisfied  we  have  the  best  and  most  prac- 
tical at  present  used  in  the  world. 

Yours  very  truly, 

E.  H.  Watkihidfsk. 


WOOX-SOCKET  Ei.ECTKIC  MaCHIXE  AXI)  Bowf.1!  Co. 

WooxsocivET,  1\.  I.,  March  25,  1885. 

Wni.  Widlund,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir:  I received  your  letter  of  inquiry  this  morning  and  will  en- 
deavor to  answer  it,  and  I hope  satisfactory  to  you.  As  you  state,  we  “ do 
use  the  Tliomson-Houston  system  of  arc  lighting,”  and  liave  used  it  for 
two  years,  and  in  the  face  of  strong  onposition  (as  the  local  gas  company 
is  composed  of  the  most  infiuential  men  of  the  town),  we  have  built  up 
such  a strong  feeling  in  favor  of  our  lights  that  the  town  has  contracted 
for  some  of  them  to  light  their  streets.  In  regard  to  the  system  itself, 
as  far  as  we  are  enabled  to  judge  from  experience,  correspondence,  etc., 
it  is  the  very  best  one  at  present  in  use  in  this  country,  notably  for  quan- 
tity, quality,  and  steadiness  of  the  light.  Providence  and  Newport,  the 
two  largest  cities  of  the  State,  have  discarded  their  old  systems  and  sub- 
stituted the  Tliomson-Houston  arc  lamps,  and  are  both  well  pleased  with 
the  change. 

Since  we  have  started  here  the  citizens  have  been  more  than  satisfied 
with  our  lights,  and  those  of  them  who  have  travelled  to  other  cities, 
where  other  and  dillercnt  systems  of  electric  lighting  arc  employed,  have 
returned  and  exiiress  the  opinion  that  those  in  their  own  town  arc  eciual 
ami  in  many  eases  superior  to  those  they  have  seen  elsewhere. 


81 


The  ease  and  rapidity  with  wlucli  our  dynamo  tlirows  oil’  its  full  num- 
ber of  lifjlits  and  adjusts  itself  to  a smaller  nnmlrer  or  load,  and  rice  versa, 
witli  no  perceptible  chan!>e  or  interruption  of  the  steady  current,  has 
always  been  a source  of  gratilication  to  us,  anil  cannot  fail  to  commend 
the  same  system  to  others. 

I remain,  respectfully  yours, 

Levi  C.  Lin’coi.x,  Treasurer. 


Till'.  Gem  City  Ei.i'.crnic  Licirr  CoMP.iXY. 

QfiXCY,  Ii.i..,  IMarch  2,  1885. 

IThe  IViiUund,  Esq.,  Boston. 

Dear  Sir:  lieplying  to  your  inipiiry  of  the  27th  regarding  the  Thom- 
son-Houston  system,  will  say  that  it  has  been  in  operation  here  for 
the  past  eighteen  months,  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  consumers  and 
interested  parties.  The  plant  was  started  Aug.  30,  1883,  with  forty-five 
lights.  An  addition  of  125  lights  was  made  on  Jan.  10,  1885.  The  125 
lights  are  used  for  street  illumination  and  are  paid  for  by  the  eit.v.  Am 
at  liberty  to  state  that  the  original  forty-five  lights  were  run  at  a net 
profit  of  more  than  ten  per  cent.  With  the  recent  additions  this  amount 
will  be  much  increased.  It  is  unnecessary  to  speak  of  the  superiority  of 
this  light,  as  that  is  apparent. 

In  regard  to  economy,  it  has  been  put  in  places  where  other  systems 
have  failed  to  pay  running  expenses,  and  has  paid  a good  dividend. 

The  repairs  on  the  original  plant  have  not  amounted  to  twenty-five 
dollars  per  year.  If  the  new  plant  is  as  economical  in  this  respect,  we 
can  find  no  fault.  This  amount  does  not  cover  breakage  of  globes, 
which  is  a somewhat  larger  item,  but  as  near  as  we  can  ascertain,  no 
more  than  with  other  systems.  The  system  is  all  that  it  was  represented 
to  be,  and  was  selected  aftera  competitive  trial  with  two  other  prominent 
systems. 

Yours  very  truly, 

G.  W.  II.vuT,  Snpt. 


The  Citizen’s’  Ei.ectuic  Light  Co., 

.Vkuon,  Ohio,  March  20,  1885. 

IFm.  Wulluncl,  care  of  Matthew  Croshij,  92  State  Street,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir;  Your  favor  of  inipiiry  of  the  24th  inst.,  at  liand.  In 
reply  will  say  that  our  plant  has  been  in  operation  since  about  the  25th 
of  December  last.  I could  not  give  you  a practical  answer  so  far  as 
economy  or  expense  of  running  is  concerned. 

The  light  produced  by  the  Thomson-IIouston  system  is  a very  supe- 
irior  light  so  far  as  steadiness  and  brilliancy  and  also  color  is  concerned. 
The  latter  point  I consider  a very  imiiortant  one. 


32 


We  liave  a plant  here  of  150  full  arc  lights  (2,000  caiullc-power  nom- 
inal), and  thus  far  we  feel  perfectlj-  satisfied.  If  you  were  here  I could 
give  you  some  practical  information  that  would  be  of  value  to  you. 

Should  he  pleased  to  hear  from  you  again,  and  would  like  to  know 
what  system  you  adopt. 

Very  respectfully. 

S.  1).  Stew.art,  Sec.  and  Treas. 


Connecticut  District  Telegr.\ph  & Electric  Co., 

Waterisury,  Conn.,  March  25,  1885. 
Wm.  Widlund,  care  Mathew  Crosby,  92  State  St.,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir:  Yours  of  the  24th  iust.  received,  and  in  reply  will  say  that 
before  we  accepted  the  Thomson-Houston  system  we  gave  the  other  sys- 
tems a thorough  ventilation  and  will  say  that  after  looking  them  over  we 
determined  the  Thomson-Houston  Co.’s  system  to  be  the  steadiest,  most 
economical,  and  reliable  of  them  all,  and  its  use  here  has  been  a perfect 
success,  and  we  take  great  pleasure  in  recomineuding  its  use  to  your 
people.  They  will  not  only  find  it  gives  the  most  satisfactory  light,  but 
will  prove  the  most  substantial  financially. 

Yours  truly, 

A.  M.  Young,  Secretary. 


The  Essex  Electric  Company. 

Haverhill,  Mass.,  March  25,  1885. 

Mr.  Wm.  Widlund,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir:  In  reply  to  yours  of  the  24th,  inquiring  about  the  Thom- 
son-Houston system  would  say  that  I think  it  the  most  perfect  and 
economical  system  in  the  market.  Customers  who  have  used  in  Boston 
both  the  Brush  and  Weston  systems  in  their  stores,  claim  the  Thomson- 
Houston  is  far  superior  to  cither,  and  I know  from  my  experience  that  it 
is  the  most  economical,  owing  mostly  to  the  perfect  arrangement  for 
regulation.  I should  advise  that  you  visit  the  company’s  factory  at 
Lynn,  Mass.,  and  there  yon  can  see  and  have  explained  all  the  details,  and 
1 think  you  will  have  no  hesitation  in  saying  with  me  that  the  Thomson- 
Houston  system  is  superior  to  all  others. 

Very  respectfully  yours, 

D.  W.  Dt:NN,  Manager  Essex  Electric  Co. 


The  CxLOucester  Electric  Light  Co. 

Gloucester,  March  24,  1885. 

Mr.  ITwi.  Widlund, 

Dear  Sir:  Your  inquiry  of  the  23d  iust.  at  hand.  Would  say  that 
we  like  the  Thomson-Houston  Electric  Light  very  much.  AVe  have  been 
using  the  carbon  feeding  lamps,  but  do  not  like  them  very  well,  and  are 


iioinic  to  exchange  them  for  rod  feeding  lamps,  of  which  we  liave  a few, 
and  like  tliem  verj'  inucli.  Tliey  are  very  simple,  and  work  for  liours 
witliont  liissing  or  llaming,  ami  would  recommend  tliem  to  any  one  in 
want  of  an  electric  light  plant. 

Yonrs  respectfully, 

F.  .V.  Fi.sitnu,  Snpt.  (Jloncester  Electric  Light  Co. 


Tun  Lynx  Ei.kc  rnic  Ligutixg  Co. 


Lynx,  Mas.s.,  Feb.  27,  1885. 

Mr.  n’idUiiul 

Dear  Sir;  Y'onrs  of  yesterday  is  at  hand.  In  answer  to  your  in- 
quiry, I would  say  that  we  have  every  reason  to  he  well  satisfied  witli 
the  Thomsoii-llouston  system  of  electric  lighting,  because  the  light 
gives  our  customers  complete  satisfaction,  and  the  stockholders  good 
profits.  We  have  paid  a dividend  of  seven  per  cent,  from  the  start, 
which  was  the  spring  of  1882,  and  have  a surplus  of  .§5,000  to  .§0,000.  I 
should  be  jileased  to  have  you  call  down  to  Lynn,  only  half-an-hour’s 
ride,  and  see  our  iilant,  when  I can  give  you  any  additional  particulars 
you  would  like  to  know. 


Kespectfully  yours, 

IIknuy'  11.  Valpey,  Treas 


Ofllce  of  The  St.  Louis  Tiiomsox-IIoustox  Electuic  Co., 
No.  323  North  Third  Street, 

St.  Louis,  March  30,  1885. 

IFm.  Widlund,  care  of  Matthew  Croshy,  1)2  State  St.,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir : lleplying  to  j-our  favor  of  the  24tli  inst.,  would  say  that 
we  believe  the  system  of  arc  lighting  controlled  by  the  Thomson-IIouston 
Company,  of  Boston,  to  be  all  that  is  claimed  for  it.  We  have  been  using 
it  without  any  serious  trouble,  and  find  it  very  satisfactory.  It  is  un- 
doubtedly the  best  sj'stem  of  arc  lighting  now  in  use. 

AVe  have  no  connection  whatever  with  the  parent  company. 

Very  respectfully, 

I).  R.  I’owELi.,  Pres’t. 


New  Bedfoud  Ei.ectiuc  Light  Co. 

Office,  IG  Fourth  St. ; Central  station,  3 School  St. 

New  Bedfoud,  Mass.,  Feb.  27,  1885. 

Mr.  Wm.  Widhind, 

Dear  Sir:  Yours  of  the  2Gth  tluly  received.  In  repljq  would  say 
we  have  run  a Thomson-Houston  plant  here  for  a year,  and  are  very  well 
satisfied  with  it,  and  believe  it  to  be  the  best  light  in  use,  and  the  most 
economical  for  use. 

We  paid  one  dividend  of  tlirce  per  cent.  .Inly  1,  18S4,  and  see  no 
reason  why  we  should  not  continue  to  do  so. 

Yours  truly, 

.1.  .VuGi'STUs  Buowxei.i,,  Trcasui'cr. 


34 


Office  of  Lhavenwortii  Coal  Company, 

Lea  YEN  WORTH,  Kansas,  March  30,  1885. 

Wm.  Widlund,  Esq. 

Dear  Sir:  In  reply  to  j^ours  of  the  2-l:th  iust.,  would  say  that  we  do 
not  believe  the  Thomson-Houston  system  of  electric  arc  lighting  can  be 
too  highly  recommended. 

Its  automatic  and  self-regulating  features,  its  simplicity,  durability, 
economy,  and  steadiness  of  the  light,  renders  it,  in  our  opinion,  superior 
to  all  other  arc-lighting  systems  in  existence. 

Kespectfully  yours, 

Leavenworth  Coal  Co. 


Wachusett  Electric  Light  Co., 

Fitchburg,  Mass.,  March  28,  1885. 

William  Widlund,  Boston, 

Dear  Sir:  Yours  of  the  2Ith  is  at  hand,  and  in  reply  I will  state 
that  we  have  been  using  the  Thomson-Houston  system  of  arc  lighting 
for  the  past  two  years,  and  we  can  say  that  it  gives  perfect  satisfaction, 
and  we  think  it  is  the  best  in  use. 

Yours  respectfully. 

Geo.  W.  Pinkiiam,  Supt. 


The  Salem  Electric  Lighting  Company, 
Salem,  Feb.  28,  1885. 

Wm.  Widlund,  Esq. 

Dear  Sir : In  reply  to  yours  of  the  2Gth  would  say  that  this  company 
is  using  the  Thomson-Houston  system  of  lighting  with  entire  satisfaction. 

We  have  for  sale  three  10-light  Weston  machines  and  lamps.  Price, 
$000  for  each  machine  and  10  lamps. 

Yours  truly, 

H.  M.  Batchelder,  Treas. 


Lewiston  & Auburn  Electric  Light  Co. 

Auburn,  Me.,  March  28,  1885. 

Matthew  Crosby,  Esq. 

Dear  Sir:  Your  favor  of  23d  inst.  reached  me  to-day.  In  reply 
can  say  that  we  arc  running  112  Thomson-Houston  arc  lights,  having 
Iieen  in  the  business  eighteen  months.  We  have  found  the  lights  very 
satisfactory  to  ourselves  and  our  customers. 

I believe  the  Thomson-Houston  system  to  be  snperior  to  any  other 
that  I have  seen,  in  perfection  of  light  and  expense  of  running. 

Very  respectfully, 

N.  I.  Jordan,  Treasurer. 


35 


IIhi.kna,  Montana,  July  15tli,  1885. 

II.  M.  Ogdkn,  Es(i.,  care  of  Montana  Co.,  Limited,  Marysville,  Mt. 

Dear  Sir : In  reply  to  your  request  that  I would  express  inj'  opinion 
in  refjard  to  the  Thoinson-Hoiiston  arc  system  of  Electric  Lighting,  I 
take  great  pleasure  in  expressing  my  entire  satisfaction  therewith. 

Before  seeing  it  I was  very  much  prei)ossessed  with  the  Weston,  but 
after  several  months  experience  with  yours,  I am  prepared  to  say  that  it 
is  the  equal  of  any  light  in  purity,  and  superior  to  any  in  steadiness. 
When  the  light  in  the  shop  was  switched  off  we  did  not  know  it  in  the 
office,  and  vice  versa. 

The  Dynamo  being  self-regulating,  it  needs  no  attention,  and  never 
had  any  at  my  place  other  than  to  keep  it  clean,  renew  the  carbons,  and 
start  and  stop  it.  The  man  who  had  charge  of  it  knew  nothing  about  it 
whatever  until  it  was  erected  and  run  one  day  by  yourself.  Since  that 
time  he  has  run  it  without  instructions  from  anyone. 

I consider  that  two  of  your  lights  are  equal  to  three  of  the  Brush, 
not  only  as  we  have  them  in  Helena,  but  under  the  most  favorable  con- 
tlitions  I have  ever  seen  tliem. 

Yours  very  trulv, 

B.  H.  T.\TEM. 


36 


C I T I E S 

WHERE  THE  THOMSON-HOUSTON  SYSTEM  HAS 
SUPERSEDED  OTHERS, 

Among  the  many  cities  throughout  the  United  States  which 
have  discarded  other  systems,  even  after  the  apparatus  had  been 
paid  for,  and  adopted  the  Thomson-Houston,  may  be  mentioned 
the  following : — 

Davenport,  la.,  Salem,  Mass.,  New  Haven,  Conn.,  Port- 
land, Me.,  Lowell,  Mass.,  Providence,  R.  I.,  Springfield,  Mass., 
Duluth,  Minn.,  Newport,  R.  I,,  and  others.  In  connection  with 
the  latter  city,  the  following  letter  from  Mr.  W.  B.  Hosmer,  a 
director  in  the  Newport  Illuminating  Company,  and  also  one 
from  the  president  of  the  New  Haven  Electric  Company  will  be 
of  interest,  repeating  as  they  do  the  experience  of  all  the  cities 
above  mentioned. 


Pkuky  Housk,  Nicwport,  April  11,  1885. 
Mr.  ir.  W.  Munroe,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir  : In  reply  to  your  inquiry  aiklressed  to  the  Newport  Illumi- 
nating Co.,  of  which  I am  a director,  in  reference  to  the  history  of  the 
recent  change  of  electric  light  systems  in  Newport,  I will  endeavor  to 
give  you  a few  of  the  facts. 

The  United  States  or  Weston  system  had  been  in  use  for  some  time  for 
street  lighting,  the  city  having  contracted  for  fifty-eight  lights.  The 
contract  expired  .Tan.  1,  1885,  and  so  mucli  dissatisfaction  was  felt  with 
the  system  tliat  an  order  passed  the  council  ordering  the  lamp  com- 
mittee to  contract  with  the  Gas  Company  for  the  ensuing  year  to  light  the 
streets  in  i)lace  of  tlic  electric  lights. 

A few  days  later  the  lamp  committee  met  to  execute  the  instructions 
of  the  council,  and  were  confronted  with  a remonstrance  signed  l)y  the 
best  citizens  of  Newport,  who  believed  tliat  a satisfactory  system  of 
electric  lighting  could  be  obtained.  The  matter  was  referred  back  to  the 
council,  and  after  much  discussion,  tlie  Lamp  Committee  were  instructed 
to  make  tlic  fullest  investigation  possible,  of  different  systems.  Some 
weeks  were  ocenpied  in  accomplishing  this  work,  and  finally  a full  report 
was  presented  bj'  the  committee,  accompanied  liy  a unanimous  recom- 
mendation that  the  city  adojit  tlie  Tliomsou-IIouston  system  of  electric 


37 


li.ulitinir,  ami  a larire  iiicrcaso  he  made  in  the  miinbcr  of  street  liithts. 
The  committee  stated  that  tliey  were  fully  satislied  the  Thomson-1  lous- 
ton  system  was  superior  to  any  otlier  in  use. 

The  Newport  lllmninatiiiif  Comi)any  was  incorporated  to  operate  this 
system  in  Newport,  and  recei\ed  tlic  contract  with  tlic  city  for  an  in- 
crease above  the  number  of  liitlits  previously  used.  tVe  started  tlie  en- 
tire number  of  lii>hts  tins  week  aiul  can  only  say  tliat  tliey  meet  on  every 
side  the  most  hearty  aiiproval,  and  fully  realize  all  the  ijood  thimjs  that 
were  said  of  them.  tVe  anticipate  a still  further  increase  in  tlie  mimljer 
of  lights  within  six  months. 

Very  truly  yours, 

tv.  B.  IIosMKU. 


Tiik  Nkw  H.vvex  Ei.ix'rnu'  Comcaxy,  No.  8S  Tic.mim.e  St. 

New  II.AVEX,  Coxx.,  March  27,  1885. 
The  Thomson-Houston  Electric  Co.,  Bouton,  Wisx. 

Gentlemen  : In  reply  to  your  favor  of  the  2r)th  would  say  that  after 
something  more  than  a year's  trial  of  your  system,  we  find  it  all  tliat  you 
ever  claimed  for  it,  certainly  far  more  than  we  ever  expected. 

Trior  to  adopting  your  system  we  had  a most  trying  and  unfortunate 
experience  in  electric  lighting.  After  operating  the  United  States  or 
■\Veston  dynamos  and  lamps  for  some  eighteen  months,  under  the  most 
favorable  circumstances,  we  found  ourselves  heavily  in  debt,  and  losing 
money  steadily. 

tVe  can  frankly  say  that  we  did  not  l)clieve  it  possilile  to  do  a iirotita- 
Iile  business  with  any  system  at  tlie  time  we  installed  yours,  but  did  be- 
lieve it  was  the  best  system  tlien  in  use. 

It  gives  us  pleasure  now  to  state  tliat  the  year's  business  has  been 
most  gratifying.  Our  rentals  for  lamps  liavc  been  the  same  as  before  the 
change  of  systems,  yet  the  economy  of  operating  and  maintaining  your 
apparatus  is  such  that  wliat  was  a losing  Inisiness  before,  has  been 
changeil  into  a most  jirofitable  one,  and  our  company  has  a net  profit  of 
fully  sixteen  per  cent,  uiion  its  capital  stock. 

We  have  had  such  a complete  demonstration  of  the  great  commercial 
value  of  your  system,  that  we  do  not  hesitate  to  say  that  a local  com- 
pany operating  it  will  earn  a handsome  jirotit  under  the  same  circum- 
stances that  with  other  systems  would  result  in  a loss. 

More  than  this  it  is  needless  to  say  concerning  it. 

Very  truly  yonrs, 

F.  A.  Gii.iiKur,  I’res.  New  Haven  Electric  Co. 

The  New  Haven  Company  further  report  that  they  are  now  accomiilish- 
ing  for  $7  per  day  attendance  what  formerly  cost  them  .821  per  day, 
when  using  the  United  States  or  Weston  system. 


38 


[FitoM  Newport  Daily  News,  Feb.  23,  1883.] 

To  the  Editor  of  the  Daily  Xeics. 

In  an  article  of  your  issue  of  the  17th  instant,  on  the  Electric  Light 
controversy,  the  writer  referred  to  the  AVeston  lights  in  Loweli,  Massa- 
cluisetts,  as  still  in  use,  although  the  Thonison-Houston  system  had  been 
introduced  there.  I wrote  the  general  manager  of  the  Lowell  company 
for  information  on  the  subject,  and  hand  you  herewith  his  reply. 

Kespectfull3% 

AA'.  B.  Hosmer. 


Boston*,  Feb.  23,  1885. 

W.  B.  Hosmer,  Esq.,  Boston,  Mass. 

Dear  Sir:  Your  letter  of  the  19th  instant  at  hand  inquiring  in  regard 
to  the  merits  of  tlie  Thomson-IIoustoii  and  AA'eston  system  of  electric- 
lights.  In  replj'  would  say  our  experience,  after  running  both  systems 
for  two  j-ears,  has  taught  us  that  no  company  can  afford  to  use  the  AA^eston 
sj*stem,  as  it  would  bankrupt  them  to  keep  them  in  repair  and  running. 
And  again,  run  them  the  best  you  can,  you  cannot  give  j-our  customers  a 
decent  light  or  a light  they  will  be  satisfied  to  pay  for.  On  the  other 
hand  the  Thomson-IIouston  sj-stcm  can  be  run  at  comparative!}*  no  ex- 
pense for  repairs,  and  \-et  j'ou  get  a perfectlj'  wliite,  steady  light  witliout 
any  hissing  — a light  that  pleases  everybody.  I never  have  taken  out  a 
Thomson-IIouston  light  on  account  of  it  not  giving  satisfaction,  whiic 
we  have  been  obiigcd  to  take  out  every  AA^eston  light  we  had  in  stores 
(about  sixty  in  all),  and  replace  them  with  Thomson-Houston,  and  as  a 
last  resort  we  put  the  AA'estons  on  the  streets  because  we  did  not  have 
Thomson-IIouston  lainjis  enough  to  fill  our  orders  and  could  not  afford 
to  buy  more  while  we  had  eight  AA'eston  dynamos  on  hand.  AA’^e  Iiave 
been  trying  to  sell  them  for  over  a }-ear,  but  could  not  get  an  offer.  As 
soon  as  we  put  the  AA'’eston  lights  on  the  street,  the  Superintendent  of 
street-lights  and  the  public  generally,  began  to  find  fault  with  them,  and 
there  has  been  so  much  fault  found,  and  they  are  such  a poor  light,  so 
unreliable  and  so  expensive  to  run,  that,  at  a meeting  of  the  executive 
committee  of  this  company  held  yesterdaj*,  it  was  decided  to  discon- 
tinue running  them  altogether,  and  a meeting  of  the  directors  is  called 
for  February  24th  to  autliorize  the  executive  committee  to  purchase 
Thomson-IIouston  dynamos  and  lamps  to  replace  them.  AA^c  are  ready  to 
sell  the  eight  dynamos  and  eight}*  lamps  at  fifty  per  cent,  off  list  price, 
and  take  our  pay  in  Thomson-IIouston  dynamos  at  list  price.  If  you 
wisli  more  information,  I would  referyou  to  the  Superintendent  of  street- 
lights and  to  our  leading  merchants  who  have  used  and  are  now  using 
the  Thomson-IIouston.  I will  send  you  a list  of  them,  if  you  wish  it. 

Hespectfully, 

J.  Y.  Bradbury,  General  Manager. 


ELECTRICITY  vs.  GAS. 

THE  FORMER  AN  ALLY  RATHER  THAN  COMPETITOR 
OF  THE  LATTER. 


Within  the  past  few  montlis,  the  gas  companies  have  been 
gradually  awakening  to  the  fact  that,  so  far  from  being  a com- 
petitor, electric  lighting,  if  properly  introduced  and  managed, 
may  prove  a valuable  ally  to  their  business,  inasmuch  as  it  very 
naturally  creates  a demand  for  more  brilliant  illumination  gen- 
erally. 

It  is  a peculiar  but  nevertheless  well-established  fact, 
that  in  all  large  cities  where  electric  lights  have  been  successfully 
introduced,  and  established  upon  a paying  basis,  there  the  gas 
companies  are  carrying  on  a more  ju'osperous  business  than  ever 
before  in  the  history  of  tlieir  organization.  This  belief  has  be- 
come so  thoroughly  impressed  upon  the  minds  of  the  officers  in 
several  large  gas  companies,  that  they  have  purchased  Tlrom- 
son-Houston  apparatus,  which  they  are  now  using  very  si:ccess- 
fidly  in  connection  with  their  gas.  A few  letters  of  recent  date 
from  several  of  these  companies  we  publish  below,  and  we  would 
here  take  the  opportunity  of  inviting  officers  of  gas  companies 
and  capitalists  interested  therein,  to  correspond  with  us  with  a 
view  to  testing  the  success  of  furnishing  arc  lights  in  connection 
with  gas. 

The  day  for  unreasonable  prejudice  is  past,  and  now,  in  con- 
sideration of  the  high  perfection  attained  by  the  Thomson-Hous- 
ton  system,  in  all  prominent  cities  where  a demand  for  electric 
lights  exists  or  cair  be  created,  the  local  gas  companies  should  be 
the  very  first  to  take  steps  toward  securing  the  field  and  furnish- 
ing the  lights  to  such  of  their  patrons  as  may  desire  them. 


Office  of  the  Musc.vTiNr;  G.vs  Light  and  Coke  Co. 

jMuscatixe,  Iowa,  April  2,  1885. 

The  Thomson- Houston  Electric  Co. 

Gentlemen : In  repl.v  to  your  letter  of  March  .80,  would  say  that 
since  the  introduction  of  the  electric  light  in  our  city,  we  find  that  the 
consumption  of  gas  has  increased  about  ten  per  cent,  or  more. 


40 


The  conviction  is  dail.v  growins:  upon  us  tliat  the  electric  arc  light,  so 
far  from  being  a detriment  to  tlie  use  of  gas,  has  increased  it  without  a 
doul)t. 

We  feel  pleased  with  our  investment,  and  M'ould  recommend  all  gas 
companies  to  adopt  its  use,  believing  that  they  will  find  the  investment  a 
profitable  one. 

Yours  very  truly, 

T.  CowicLL,  Sec.  and  Treas.  Muscatine  Gas  Co. 


[ COPY.] 

Ofiick  op  Utic.v  G.vs  Light  Co.,  23  Whitesboro’  St. 

Utica,  Nkw  Yohk,  July  IG,  18S5. 

J.  D.  Higgins,  Esq.,  Sup’t  Koine  Gas  Light  Co.,  Rome,  N.  Y. 

Dear  Sir: — We  are  answering  many  inquiries  like  your  own,  as  to  tlie 
efi'ect  of  electrical  arc  lighting  upon  our  gas  lighting  interests.  We  have 
been  experimenting  two  years  witli  a limited  plant  used  principally  for 
street  and  out  door  lighting  for  which  it  seems  generally  well  adapted. 
Our  experience  and  observation  leaves  us  in  no  doubt  that  the  introduction 
of  electric  arc  lighting  here  lias  increased  our  sale  of  gas. 

Truly  yours, 

11.  H.  FISH,  Treas. 


[copy.] 

Davkxpout  Gas  LiGiir  Company, 

Davf.npout,  Iowa,  Jpi.y  21,  1885. 

S.  A.  Bap.ton,  Es(].,  Gen’l  Manager  Thomson-Houston  Electric  Co. 

Dear  Sir:  — It  will  doubtless  interest  you  to  learn  some  particulars 
of  our  experiment  in  the  use  of  your  system  of  electric  illumination  in 
connection  witli  gas  lighting. 

We  liave  now  operated  two  of  your  25-light  machines  for  somewhat 
over  one  year. 

We  are  lighting  the  city  itself  with  gas,  under  contract. 

In  this  union  of  electricity  witli  gas,  our  company  was  the  pioneer, 
and  despite  the  warnings  and  forebodings  of  our  associates,  the  experi- 
ment has  turned  out  au  entire  success. 

Your  lights  have  not  only  given  our  customers  entire  satisfaction, 
but  many  of  them  are  almost  enthusiastic  in  their  expression  of  appro- 
bation. 

We  have  found  your  system  safe,  easy,  and  economical  in  operating, 
and  it  is  diflicult  to  see  wherein  it  can  be  improved. 

There  is  one  result  of  our  experiment  with  electricity,  which  should 
commend  itself  to  gas  companies  generally,  and  tliat  is  its  tendency  to 
increase  the  consumption  of  gas.  This  is  easily  explained  by  the  fact 
that  it  educates  the  eye  up  to  a higher  standard  of  illumination. 


41 


Customers  not  iisiiiij  the  electric  lijjht  eiulcavor  to  vie  with  its  jjreater 
brilliancy  by  burninjj:  jias  at  fnll  head,  aiul  this  incnaises  their  consnini)- 
tion. 

Thus  ainonji:  our  larire  consumers,  we  have  a capacious  and  popular 
liotel.  The  proprietor,  over  a year  since,  displaced  gas  in  the  ollice  and 
corridors  with  electricity,  using  live  of  your  arc  lights.  The  curious  and 
important  result  is,  that  his  consumption  of  gas  in  the  remainder  of  his 
house  is  larger  than  his  entire  consumption  before  adoi>ting  the  electric 
liglit. 

I must  not  omit  to  mention  that  while  our  adoption  of  electricity  as 
part  of  our  system  of  illumination  has  not  decreased  our  gas  profits,  there 
is  a fair  prospect  tlial  tlie  experiment  itself  will  turn  out  remunerative. 

If  tlie  system  continues  to  work  in  the  future  as  in  tlie  i)ast,  we  shall 
easily  be  al)le  to  make  as  large,  if  not  larger,  dividends  upon  our  electric 
light,  as  upon  our  gas  plant. 

Very  truly  yours, 

CII.AS.  E.  EUTM.VN,  Prest. 


The  following  gas  companies  have  purchased  Thomson-riouston  Elec- 
tric Light  apparatus  and  are  running  the  same  very  successfully  in  con- 
nection with  tlieir  gas  works. 


NAMK  OF  COMl’ANV. 

I.OCA'riON. 

NO.  OF 
LIGHTS. 

The  Muscatine  Gas  Light  Co., 

Itinscatine, 

Iowa. 

27 

Davenport  Gas  Light  and  Coke  Co., 

Davenport, 

“ 

50 

Twin  City  Gas  Liglit  Co., 

lai  Salle, 

III. 

50 

Ereeport  Gas  Liglit  and  Coke  Co., 

Freeport, 

“ 

(10 

Oakland  Gas  Light  and  Coke  Co., 

Oakland, 

Cal. 

75 

Ashland  Gas  Liglit  Co., 

.Vshland, 

Penn. 

2.5 

Leavenworth  Coal  Co., 

Leavenworth,  Kan. 

102 

42 


LOCAL  COMPANIES, 

OPERATING  THE  THOMSON  - HOUSTON  SYSTEM. 


■\Ve  publish  below  a list  of  the  local  illuminating  companies  which  have 
adopted  and  are  now  using  the  Thomson-Houston  system.  This  list  is 
constantly  being  added  to,  ami  at  the  time  of  going  to  press  a number  of 
other  companies  are  about  being  organized,  and  will  soon  be  in  active  op- 
eration. 

NO  OF 

NAME  OF  COMPANY.  LOCATION.  LIGHTS. 


Consolidated  Electric  Light  Co., 

r Portland  and  Old 
\ Orchard,  Me. 

Lewiston  and  Auburn  Electric  Light  Co., 

Lewiston,  Me. 

Bar  Harbor  Electric  Light  Co., 

Bar  Harbor,  “ 

Merchants’  Electric  Light  and  Power  Co., 

Boston,  Mass. 

Union  Electric  Light  Co., 

East  Boston,  “ 

Lynn  Electric  Lighting  Co., 

Lynn,  “ 

Salem  Electric  Lighting  Co., 

Salem,  “ 

Worcester  Electric  Lighting  Co., 

Worcester.  “ 

Middlesex  Electric  Lighting  Co., 

Lowell,  “ 

Wachusett  Electric  Lighting  Co., 

Fitchburg,  “ 

New  Bedford  Electric  Ligliting  Co  , 

New  Bedford,  “ 

Fall  River  Electric  Light  Co., 

Fall  River,  “ 

Essex  Electric  Light  Co., 

Haverhill,  “ 

Gloucester  Electric  Light  Co., 

Gloucester,  “ 

Spriiigfleld  Electric  Light  Co., 

Spriiigfleld,  “ 

The  Jenny  Electric  Light  Co., 

Brockton,  “ 

North  Adams  Electric  Light  and  Power  Co., 

North  Adams,  “ 

Cottage  City  Electric  Light  Co., 

Cottage  City,  “ 

Woonsocket  Electric  Machine  & Power  Co., 

Woonsocket,  R.  I. 

Narragansett  Electric  Light  Co., 

Providence,  “ 

Pawtucket  Electric  Liglit  Co., 

Pawtucket,  “ 

Newport  Electric  Illuminating  Co., 

Newport,  “ 

Hartford  Electric  Light  Co., 

Hartford,  Conn. 

New  Haven  Electric  Light  Co., 

New  Haven,  “ 

Bridgeport  Electric  Liglit  Co., 

Bridgeport,  “ 

Norwich  Electric  Light  Co., 

Norwich,  “ 

Conn.  District  Telephone  and  Telegraph  Co., 

Watorbiiry,  “ 

Syracuse  Electric  Liglit  and  Power  Co., 

Syracuse,  N.  Y. 

Central  N.  Y.  Electric  Light  and  Power  Co., 

Utica,  “ 

Auburn  Electric  Light  Co., 

Auburn,  “ 

Citizens’  Electric  Illuminating  Co., 

Brooklyn,  “ 

Elmira  Electric  Light  Co., 

Elmira,  “ 

Municipal  Electric  Light  Co.. 

Brooklyn,  “ 

Bethlehem  Electric  Light  Co., 

Bethlehem,  Pa. 

200 

150 

100 

498 

100 

1G5 

175 

200 

250 

139 

119 

131 

87 

56 

106 

60 

38 

50 

28 

470 

50 

75 
300 
162 
241 

76 
80 

266 

53 

103 

137 

28 

125 

121 


43 


NAME  OF  COMPANY. 


NO  OF 

LOCATION.  LIGHTS. 


McKeeseport  Electric  I.ijilit  Co., 
Germantown  Electric  Liiiht  Co., 
Champion  Electric  Li_olit  Co., 

Columbus  Electric  Eisht  and  Power  Co., 
Chillecothe  Electric  Lie:lit  Co., 

Citizens’  Electric  Liiilit  Co., 

Cleveland  Electric  Light  Co., 

Gem  City  Electric  Light  Co., 

East  St.  Louis  Electric  Light  Co., 

The  Thomas  Electric  Light  Co., 

Pontiac  Electric  Light  Co., 

Streator  Electric  Light  Co., 

Mendota  Electric  Light  Co., 

Citizens’  Electric  Light  Co., 


McKeeseport,  Pa.  50 

Germantown,  “ 50 

Springtield,  Ohio,  80 


Colnmbns, 

Chillecothe, 

Akron, 

Cleveland, 

Quincy, 

E.  St.  Louis, 

(Ottawa, 

Pontiac, 

Streator, 

IMendota, 

Des  Moines,  ! 


“ 1.55 

“ !) 

“ Ml 

“ 180 

111.  18:5 

“ 100 

“ 85 

“ 25 

“ 25 

“ 2(5 

owa.  50 


Pilcher  Improved  Electric  Light  Co., 

Council  BTfi’s,  Iowa. 

75 

St.  Louis  Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Light  Co.,St.  liOuis,  Mo. 

200 

St.  Joseph  Electric  Light  Co., 

St.  Joseiih,  “ 

95 

Kawsmouth  Electric  Light  Co., 

Kansas  City,  “ 

227 

Oshkosh  Electric  Light  Co., 

Oshkosh,  M’is. 

00 

Janesville  Electric  Light  Co.. 

Janesville,  “ 

50 

Badger  Electric  Light  Co., 

Racine,  “ 

100 

Leavenworth  Coal  Co., 

Leavenworth  ,Kan. 

102 

■Western  Construction  Co., 

Atchison,  “ 

75 

Dnlnth  Electric  Light  Co., 

Duluth,  Minn. 

75 

Excelsior  Electric  Light  Co., 

Port  Huron,  Mich. 

00 

Terre  Haute  Electric  Light  Co., 

Terre  Haute,  Ind. 

105 

Atlanta  Electric  Light  Co., 

.Vtlanta,  Georgia. 

45 

Electric  Light  and  Power  Co.  of  Mobile, 

Moliile,  Ala. 

50 

Pacific  Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Light  Co., 

Sacramento,  Cal. 

212 

Jacksonville  Electric  Light  Co., 

Jacksonville,  Fla. 

00 

Poughkeepsie  Electric  Light  Co., 

I’onghkeepsie,  N.  Y. 

79 

Omaha  Electric  Light  Co., 

Omaha,  Neb. 

120 

Long  Branch  Electric  Light  Co., 

Long  Branch,  N.  J. 

90 

Plainfield  Electric  Light  Co., 

Plainfield,  N.  J. 

50 

Brookline  Electric  Iliuminating  Co., 

Brookline,  Mass. 

90 

York  Electric  Light  Co., 

York,  Pa. 

180 

Asbury  Park  Electric  Light  Co., 

Asbury  Park,  X.  J. 

50 

Bangor  Electric  liluminating  Co., 

Bangor,  Me. 

114 

Camden  Electric  Light  Co., 

Camden,  N.  J. 

100 

Auburn  Electric  Light  Co., 

Auburn,  Me. 

25 

Keokuk  Electric  Light  Co., 

Keokuk,  Iowa. 

00 

Crawfords ville  Electric  Light  Co., 

Crawfordsville,  Ind. 

45 

Rockaway  Beach  Illuminating  Co., 

Rockaw.ay  Beach,  L.  1.  45 

Jacksonville  Electric  Light  Co., 

Jacksonville,  111. 

30 

44 


FOREIGN  COMPANIES. 


NO.  OF 


NA.ME  OF  CO.MPANY. 

LOCATION. 

LIGHTS. 

Ottawa, 

Ontario. 

200 

St.  Catharine’s, 

“ 

100 

Peterborough, 

“ 

125 

Hamilton, 

“ 

150 

Montreal, 

Quebec. 

350 

Quebec, 

i ( 

200 

Halifax, 

Nova  Scotia. 

100 

St.  .Johns, 

New  Brunswick. 

100 

St.  John, 

Newfoundland. 

00 

Kio  de  .Janeiro,  (In  course  of  construction.) 

Brazil. 

l^ara,  “ “ 

“ 

I..ima,  “ “ 

Peru. 

100 

Callao,  “ “ 

“ 

Guayaquil,  “ *• 

Ecuador. 

50 

Guatemala  Electric  I.,ight  Co., 

Guatemala,  C.  A. 
Mazatlan,  Mexico. 

300 

Caui.tox  IIousi;,  Capk  May  Poixt,  X.  J.,  Aug.  2,  1882. 
Thomsoii-llouston  Electric  Light  Co. 

Geiitleiiicn : — We  have  now  had  your  Thoinsoii-llouston  Electric 
Liglit  ill  operation  one  month,  and  I can,  without  hesitation,  say  that  it 
gives  us  entire  satisfaction.  We  think  it  as  near  perfect  as  it  is  possible 
to  get  a light,  and  it  is  the  admiration  of  all  who  see  it. 

Yours  truly, 

A.  II.  IIamii.tox. 


Fauist  Sticei.  Co., 
JIUIDGEPOKT,  Coxx. 

The  Thoms^on-Hoiiston  Electric  Co. : 

Gentlemen:  In  reply  to  yours  of  the  5th,  inquiring  something  of 
my  exiierience  while  serving  on  the  Committee  of  gentlemen  of  this  city 
ap])ointed  to  investigate  and  reiiort  on  the  liest  Electric  Eight,  I will  saj' 
that  after  seeing  the  Cnited  States,  the  Weston,  tlie  Hrnsh,  and  the 
Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Lights  in  oiieration,  we  decided  that  the 
Thomson-IIonston  Light  was  far  the  liest,  for  the  following  reasons:  — 
First  — The  steadiness  of  the  light. 


45 


Second  — The  soft  or  easy  liijht  to  the  eye,  while  retniiiiiii>:  the  power 
and  brilliancy  of  any  liitlit  seen.  We  l)elieve,  so  far  as  our  exi)eriencc 
ftoes,  that  it  is  Ihe  most  economical  system  to  run  tliat  is  now  used. 

We  arc  at  this  time  i)ultinjt  up  a new  i)lant  of  your  system  in  com- 
petition with  the  Brush  Co.’s  system,  and  we  expect  soon  to  have  the 
city  lighting. 

Bespectfully  yours, 

.Toki,  F.viust. 

[Since  the  above  was  written,  the  city  lighting  in  Bridgc|)ort  has 
been  awarded  to  tlic  Bridgeport  Electric  Light  Co.,  using  the  'J’hoinson- 
Ilouston  .system.] 


B.vxxtm  Ton.icco  Wouks, 

UiciiMOXD,  V.V.,  July  2(’)th,  1884. 

Dear  Sir  : Replying  to  your  impiiry  as  to  how  we  have  been  pleased 
with  the  Electric  Light,  known  as  the  “ Thoinsoii-IIouston  System”  with 
which  you  supplied  us,  it  gives  us  pleasure  to  state  that  we  have  found 
it  in  every  way  all  that  you  claimed  for  it.  The  light  given  is  bright  and 
clear,  and  free  from  that  tlickering  which  renders  the  most  lights  of  the 
kind  unsatisfactory.  Under  this  light  the  color  of  the  wrappers  is 
brought  out  as  clear  as  in  daylight,  enabling  ns  to  work  without  inter- 
mission during  cloudy  weather  or  at  night.  Again,  this  light  throws  out 
but  little  heat.  Our  works  arc  conseciuently  much  cooler  and  more  com- 
fortable than  when  gas  is  used,  the  volume  of  light  being  at  the  same 
time  immensely  greater.  Besides  tlie  cost  of  the  machine  and  expense  of 
putting  it  in,  we  have  been  at  no  expense  in  running  it,  save  for  the 
“ Carbon  Points,”  which  we  liave  found  not  to  exceeil  fifty  cents  a niglit 
for  the  ten  lamps  in  ojieration.  We  have  of  course  furnished  our  own 
power,  but  tliis  we  have  found  to  lie  scarcely  noticeable,  as  we  but  use 
the  steam  necessary  for  the  proper  working  of  our  estal)li.shment.  We 
would  most  cordially  recommend  your  system  to  any  one  desirous  of 
using  “ Electric  Light.” 

We  remain  yours  truly. 

La w h kxck  Lotti ki{. 


Tiik  Lyxx  Ei.kctuic  Ligiitixc,  Co. 

' Lyxx,  Mass.,  Sept.  1),  1882. 

The  Thomson- Honsiton  Electric  Co. 

Gentlemen:  You  ask  me  wliat  I can  say  of  yonr  system.  In  reply  Avill 
say,  I cannot  speak  too  highly  of  it.  I regard  it  as  the  most  practical, 
most  economical,  and  the  easiest  system  to  run  now  in  use.  'I'lie  value 
of  the  Automatic  Regulator  cannot  be  over-estimated.  'I’liat  and  the  .Vir- 
Blast  Attachment  arc  almost  indispensable  to  the  perfect  and  economical 
working  of  a system  of  arc  lighting.  Owing  to  the  frcqnent  closing  of 


tlie  stores  in  this  cit}'  during  the  summer  months,  we  should  have  been 
compelled  to  run  our  business  at  a loss  this  season,  had  it  not  been  for  the 
Automatic  Regulator,  which  admits  of  a corresponding  diminution  of  mo- 
tive power  as  we  diminish  the  number  of  lamps  in  actual  use.  And  to  give 
you  my  opinion  of  the  Air-Blast,  perhaps  I can  do  it  in  no  better  way 
than  to  state  that  I find  it  impossible  to  flash  the  2G-lighter  which  has  it 
on,  and  the  saving  in  brushes  and  wear  on  commutators  is  considerable. 
Although  the  machine  has  been  running  nearly  three  months  toe  haoe  not 
found  it  necessary  to  trim  the  brushes,  and  the  wear  on  the  commutator  is 
not  noticeable.  In  conclusion,  the  merits  of  the  system  cannot  be  set 
forth  too  highly ; suflice  it  to  say  we  could  not  be  induced  to  exchange  for 
any  other  system  now  in  use. 

Yours  veiw  truly, 

Hknuy  R.  Valpej-,  Manager  Lynn  Electric  Lighting  Co. 


Ofeice  of  the  H.vrtfoud  Silk  M’f’g  Co. 

Tauiffville,  Coxx,  June  28,  1883. 
The  Thomson- Houston  Electric  Co.,  131  Devonshire  St.,  Boston,  Mass. 

Gentlemen:  We  have  had  in  use  for  the  past  year  three  of  your  ten- 
light  machines,  and  have  to  say  that  we  are  much  pleased  with  the  work- 
ing of  the  same,  and  are  well  satisfied  that  we  get  a licttcr  light  and  at  a 
very  much  less  expense  than  can  be  had  by  any  other  .system  of  lighting. 
Expense  of  repairs  has  been  nothing,  and  the  cost  of  keeping  the  light  in 
order  very  small  in  proportion  to  results  obtained. 

Yours  truly, 

E.  A.  Freemax,  Treas. 


Office  of  Johnson  M’f’g  Co., 

Manufacturers  of  Ginghams. 

North  Adams,  Mass.,  July  11,  1883. 
Messrs.  Thomson- Houston  Electric  Light  Co.,  Boston,  Mass. 

Gentlemen:  Your  favor  of  the  10th  inst.  received.  The  Electric 
Lighting  apparatus,  put  by  you  into  our  works,  runs  to  our  entire  satis- 
faction. We  have  had  one  or  two  other  makes  here  on  trial,  but  for  our 
purpose  your  machine  is  tlie  best  of  them  all.  We  are  pleased  to  be  able 
to  recommend  the  machine. 

Yours  very  truly, 

Joiixsox  M’f’g  Co.,  R.  II.  Sykes. 


riTTSHURGii,  Ra.,  July  10,  1882. 
The  Thomson-Houston  Electric  Light  Co.,  Philadelphia,  Pa. 

Gentlemen  : We  have  used,  during  the  past  winter,  sixteen  lights  and  one 
Dvnamo-Electric  Machine,  of  your  make,  and  are  pleased  to  state  that  so 
far  we  are  perfectly  satisfied  with  the  same. 

Yours  respectfully. 

Keystone  Bridge  Co.,  A.  Gotti.ieu,  Pres. 


47 


Fuom  TiiK  KAWSMorni  Elkctkic  Luiirr  Co. 

Kaxs.v.s  City,  Xov.  22,  18S2. 

S.  Barton,  Esq.,  Gen.  Manager  Thomson- Houston  Electric  Co.,  Boston. 

Dear  Sir : Our  company  have  been  usinji  for  several  months  the 
Thomson-IIouston  system  of  electric  liithting,  and  supplying  satisfactory 
lights  to  our  customers.  tVe  have  one  hundred  and  ten  lights  now  in  use, 
and  will  soon  add  to  the  number  to  meet  the  increasing  demand  for  them. 
I regard  the  lights  furnished  as  exceeding  in  quality,  brilliancy,  and  stead- 
iness, any  others  that  I have  seen ; and  I believe  the  system  to  be  the 
most  economical,  most  practical,  and  the  easiest  to  run  of  any  sj'stcm  in 
use.  Your  system  was  adopted  after  an  investigation  of  other  systems, 
and  I have  no  reason  to  regret  our  choice.  The  business  is  highly  satis- 
factory. Yours  truly, 

W.M.  Hoi.MUs,  Fres’t  Kawsmouth  Electric  Light  Co. 

Since  the  receipt  of  the  above  letter  the  Kawsmouth  Co.  have 
taken  four  additional  2.5-light  dynamos. 

Nkw  Bkit’aix,  Conn.,  Jan.  11,  1882. 

To  ichom  it  may  concern  : — 

We  can  heartily  recommend  the  Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Light,  hav- 
ing used  it  in  our  store.  It  brings  out  the  colors  of  all  classes  of  goods, 
and  lights  our  store  as  thoroughly  and  satisfactorily  as  daylight. 

Any  one  once  using  the  lights  will  find  it  very  hard  to  come  down  to  gas. 
Ecspectfullv, 

F.  H.  Ai.i.is  & Co.,  Clothiers,  Furnishers,  and  Hatters. 


Continental  Bunn  e h y , 

riiiLADELPiiLi.,  July  10,  1882. 

Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Light  Co. 

Gentlemen;  In  reply  to  yours  of  the  8th  inst.,  inquiring  as  to  our 
opinion  of  j’our  Electric  Lighting  apparatus,  we  reply  that  during  the 
time  we  have  used  it,  since  October,  1879,  our  appreciation  of  it  has 
steadily  increased.  Our  whole  establishment  is  now  lighted  almost  ex- 
clusively by  it,  and  it  has  given  us  such  satisfaction  that  upon  the  com- 
pletion of  contemplated  improvements,  whereby  our  brewery  will  be 
greatly  enlarged,  we  shall  undoubtedly  call  upon  you  to  furnish  us  with 
more  apparatus.  Very  truly  yours, 

John  Gaudineu  & Co. 

Edge  Moon,  July  29,  1882. 
Thomson-IIouston  Electric  Light  Co.,  Philadelphia. 

Gentlemen:  We  have  had  one  of  your  16-llght  machines  running  at 
these  works  since  April,  1881,  and  added  a second  one  in  January  of  the 
present  year,  both  of  which  have  given  us  entire  satisfaction.  We  are 

Amours  truly. 


Edge  Moor  Iron  Co. 


48 


Baldwin  Locomotivk  4yoKKS, 

Fhiladklpiiia,  July  26,  1882. 
The,  Thomson- Houston  Electric  Lujht  Co.,  City. 

Gentlemen : We  have  luul  in  use  in  our  erecting  shop  since  October 
last  j'our  system  of  arc  lights.  One  of  your  18-light  Dynamo  Machines 
is  employed,  and  is  driven  by  a special  engine  which  is  used  expressly  for 
driving  three  dynamo-machines  of  three  difterent  sj'stems  of  electric  light. 
The  light  has  given  us  good  satisfaction  and  answered  our  purpose  well. 
We  have  found  no  difficulty  in  keeping  it  in  order  and  obtaining  from  it 
constant  service.  We  have  run  most  of  the  time  twenty  and  twent3’-one 
liglits  on  the  Dynamo,  although  you  have  frequently  reminded  us  that 
eighteen  good  lights  was  the  capaciti'  of  the  machine,  and  that  with  a 
larger  number  we  could  not  expect  such  good  results. 

In  the  latter  part  of  our  experience  with  the  lights  during  last  spring 
we  found  an  improvement  in  respect  to  their  steadiness. 

We  have  not  kept  our  accounts  in  such  a wa.v  as  to  show  the  co.st  of 
running  the  light  anj'  further  than  the  indicator  cards  taken  from  our 
engine  have  shown  the  consumption  of  II.  P.  of  15  4-10,  including  fric- 
tion, for  twenty’  of  your  lights.  This  result  as  to  II.  P.  was  not  sur- 
passed in  the  same  test  bj'  any  of  the  other  sj'stems  which  we  have  in  use. 

Very  truly  yours, 

BruNiiAM,  Pauuy,  Williams,  & Co., 
WOOLI.VEN. 


Philadelphia,  15th,  7 mo.,  1882. 

I'o  the  Thomson- Houston  Electric  Liyht  Co.,  Philadelphia. 

We  have  had  in  use  for  over  a year  one  of  your  12-light  machines  with 
excellent  results,  and  now  think  we  would  be  unable  to  conduct  business 
at  our  factory  witli  only  our  former  lighting  by  headlight  oil  in  lamps  and 
lanterns.  We  do  not  hesitate  to  recommend  your  apparatus  as  reliable 
and  economical.  When  we  purchased  it  we  gave  it  the  preference  over 
tliat  of  your  competitors  after  a thorough  acquaintance  with  all  in  the 
market.  Kespectfully, 

John  M.  Shaupi.ess  & Co., 

Philadelphia  and  Chester,  Pa. 


Dei.awake  Roi.lino  Mills, 

PlIH.ADELPHIA,  July  10,  1882. 
The  Thomson- Houston  Electric  Liyht  Co.,  City. 

Gentlemen:  We  have  had  one  of  your  G-light  Electric  Machines  in 
use  in  our  works  since  February,  1881.  It  has  given  us  entire  satisfaction. 
Yours  respectfully. 


llfCHES  & Patteuson. 


49 


Spuing  FoiuiK,  I'.v.,  ITlli,  7 iiio.,  1882. 
.Vgs-.sv.s'.  'rinmson-IIonslon  Electric  LUjlit  Co. 

(iciitlciiien ; I have  been  iisini;'  your  Eleetric  Maeliine  for  nine 
months  and  it  lias  always  given  entire  satisfaction.  I can  cliccrfnlly 
recommend  it  to  parties  who  are  in  want  of  an  Electric  Light.  I remain, 
Vonrs  respectfully, 

P.  II.  Gi..vrKKL'i  r,R,  per  "W. 


The  following  is  a copy  of  a letter  lately  received  by  Carroll  & Pow- 
ell, St.  Louis,  from  tlie  Captain  of  one  of  their  steamboats  on  tlio  Mis- 
sissippi River,  the  light  being  the  Thomson-IIouston  : 


Messrrt.  Carroll  if  Poxrell. 


Your  letter  of  Oct.  23d  to  hand  and  noted.  I should  have  complied 
ere  this  but  was  waiting  to  see  the  result  of  your  light. 

Tlie  Eleetric  Liglit  lias  been  comiileted  and  has  ever  since  given  entire. 
satMaclion,  and  can  undoubtedly  say  it  is  the  best  Uujht  I ever  saw,  and 
other  steamboat  men  recommend  the  same,  and  I can  recommend  it  as 
being  a No.  1 light.  (Signed) 


1).  .V.  CUBIIEIU.Y. 


To  \V.  B.  IIOSMEK,  Esij. 

Dear  Sir:  Yours  of  Eeb. 
duly  to  hand. 


S.VLKM,  M.\ss.,  Feb.  17,  1885. 
Ihtli  in  regard  to  electric  lighting  came 


I would  hardly  like  to  prejiulice  any  one  against  the  'Weston  svstem, 
but  will  merely  state  the  facts.  ALe  were  running  five  ten-light  Weston 
machines  for  perhaps  one  year  and  a half.  AYe  liad  so  mucli  trouble  with 
tliem  that  we  tried  one  twenty-five  light  Thomson-IIouston  maeliine  as 
an  experiment,  and  tlie  result  has  been  that  we  have  taken  out  all  of  the 
AA-eston  and  are  running  about  eighty  of  the  Thomson-IIouston  with  ex- 
cellent success. 

I think  it  fair  to  state  that  the  AA^eston  is  a good  light,  but  needs 
great  care  m running,  while  the  Thomson-IIouston  re.iuire  verv  little 
care,  comparativeh-. 


Do  you  know  of  any  one  that  wishes  to  buy  four  Weston  machines  ' 
Be  paid  .seventeen  hundred  dollars  each.  AVould  sell  f„r  six  hundred 
each,  with  lamps. 

Hoping  this  will  prove  satisfactory,  I am,  with  respect. 


Yours,  etc.. 


1.  P.  Il.umis, 

Director  in  S.u.em  E.  L.  Co. 


50 


[Fuom  tiik  Sacuamkxto  (Cai..)  Sunday  Capital,  Mahch  30,  1884.] 

The  Electric  Light  Companies  had  tlieir  lamps  liglited  last  evening 
and  the  city  presented  a fine  appearance,  and  nothing  was  talked  of  but 
Electric  Lights.  The  two  sj'stems  used  are  the  Brush  and  the  Thomson- 
llouston,  and  it  is  very  plain  to  be  seen  that  the  latter  takes  the  lead  in 
must  every  respect,  and  it  was  so  decided  by  cverybodj'  we  talked  with  on 
the  subject. 

Mr.  S.  11.  Taylor,  who  came  from  the  East  to  assist  Messrs.  tVater- 
house  and  Coleman  in  getting  the  Thomson-Houston  light  iu  operation, 
stated  to  a Capital  reporter  that  it  did  not  astouisli  him  that  their  sys- 
tem hail  taken  the  lead,  for  it  was  the  case  in  every  place  where  it  had 
come  in  competition  with  others;  and  we  do  not  doubt  it,  for  it  certainly 
is  by  far  the  finest  sj'stem  we  have  ever  seen. 

At  a private  exhibition  of  the  Thomson-IIouston  light  on  last  Friday 
evening,  when  were  present  Gov.  Stoneman,  Secretary  of  State  Thomp- 
son, Mayor  Brown,  the  Directors  of  the  Brush  Company,  and  many  prom- 
inent citizens,  we  were  shown  the  merits  of  this  light.  'We  never  sup- 
posed the  electric  light  could  reach  such  a perfection  as  is  combined  in 
this  system.  Among  the  most  important  features  are  : — 

The  lights  are  eiitirel.v  free  from  the  hissing  noise  which  is  so  disa- 
greeable iu  other  systems. 

They  Inirn  perfectly  steady,  and  consequently  make  a pleasant  light 
both  for  in-doors  or  out. 

So  jierfect  is  the  action  of  the  machinery  tliat  in  a circuit  of  twenty- 
five  to  thirty  lights,  lights  may  be  removed  or  init  out  iu  rapid  succession 
without  atl'ecting  those  that  remain. 

Each  subscriber  can  have  perfect  control  of  his  lamp,  as  it  can  be 
turned  off  or  lighted  at  will. 

The  above  are  only  a few  of  the  merits  that  were  shown  us,  but 
they  are  a sulticicnt  guarantee  that  it  has  no  e(iual  on  this  coast. 

tVe  predict  for  the  Thomson-IIouston  a grand  rush,  and  doubt  if  the 
Facitic-Electric  I>ight  and  Motor  Company  will  be  able  to  supply  the  im- 
mediate (hunaiid.  

[Fuom  tiik  Iowa  Static  Hkgistku,  Aug.  8,  1883.] 

'I’he  Xew  Electric  Light  Company  iu  Des  INIoines  has  produced  a gen- 
uine sensation  by  the  great  excellence  of  its  light,  and  by  the  steadiness 
and  softness  of  the  blaze.  Every  one  who  is  acipiainted  with  electric 
lighting,  and  who  has  seen  the  lights  of  this  new  company  for  the  past 
two  or  three  nights,  jironounces  it  the  best,  steadiest,  most  illuminating 
and  pleasant  electric  light  they  have  ever  seen.  It  is  the  Thomsou-IIous- 
ton  patent,  which  is  now  fast  suiierseding  all  other  lights  iu  New  York 
and  New  England.  It  is  soft  and  pleasant  to  the  sight,  burns  without  a 
Ilieker,  and  with  none  of  the  unpleasant  hissing  souiui  so  inseparable 
from  other  lights.  All  who  have  seen  these  new  lights  are  delighted 
with  them,  and  orders  are  being  made  for  them  by  business  men  beyond 
the  present  capacity  of  the  eomiiauy  to  furnish. 


51 


ISOLATED  LIGHTING. 


Aiiioiia:  the  many  isolated  iilants  installed  in  mills,  faetoi'ies,  and 
other  industrial  establishments  throui>:hont  the  Uidted  States  by  the 
'riiomson-llouston  Company,  may  be  mentioned  the  followin';:  — 


I’enobscot  Chemieal  Fibre  Co., 
Wentworth  Hotel, 

Harnaby  Mannfactiirin?;  Co., 
Johnson  Manufacturing  Co., 
Carson  & Hrown, 

Carew  iMannfactiiring  Co., 

Geo.  II.  Gilbert  Mfg.  Co., 

T.  J.  M.  Smith  & Co. , 

Chas.  Farker  Co., 

Hnssell  & Erwin  Mannf’g  Co., 
Stanley  Tack  Co. 

I’.  & F.  Corl)in, 

Windsor  Locks  Steel  Co., 
Waterbary  Grass  Co., 

Farist  Steel  Co., 

Hartford  Silk  iMfg.  Co., 

New  Haven  Wire  Co., 

Higgs  House, 

Hnssell  & iM organ  I’rinting  Co., 
Litchtield  Car  and  ^Machine  Co. 
National  Hotel, 

Matteson  House, 

Hush  Street  Hridge, 

-C  L.  Ide, 

Globe  Woolen  iMills. 

Hutl'alo  Electrical  Works, 

Hauncr  Tobacco  Works, 
Jacksonville  Hotel  Co., 

Chatfee  Bros., 

.Steamer  “ Chas.  NIerriam” 
Steamer  “ Minnetonka” 

Steamer  “ Chas  Morgan,” 

Win.  .Vngus, 

J.  H.  Booth  & Co., 

Midvale  Steel  Works, 

I’enncoyd  Iron  fVorks, 

Baldwin  Locomotive  "Works, 
Delaware  Holling  Jlills, 

W.  C.  Allison  & .Sous’  Car  Shop, 


AVest  Great  AVorks 

. Me. 

Newcastle, 

N.  11. 

F'all  Hiver, 

Mass. 

North  .Vtlams, 

“ 

Dalton, 

“ 

South  Hadley, 

“ 

AA'are, 

Boston, 

( ( 

Meriden, 

Conn. 

New  Britain, 

New  Britain, 

“ 

New  Britain, 

“ 

AA'indsor  Locks, 

“ 

AA’^aterbnry, 

'• 

Bridgeport, 

“ 

TarillAille, 

New  Haven, 

“ 

AA’ashington, 

1).  C. 

Cincinnati, 

Ohio. 

Litchlicld, 

111. 

Peoria, 

i ( 

Chicago, 

Chicago, 

“ 

Spriuglield, 

Ctica, 

N.  Y. 

Buffalo, 

“ 

Hiclimond, 

Va. 

Jacksonville, 

Fla. 

Etiwanda, 

Cal. 

Mississijipi  Hiver, 

Ky. 

Mississi|)pi  Hiver, 

riississi))])!  Hiver, 

•• 

^Montreal,  Canada. 

( H'.awa, 

Nice  town.  Philadelphia. 

near  Philadelphia, 

Pa. 

I’liiladclphia, 

'• 

Philadelphia. 

I’hiladelphia. 

52 


Chas.  Spencer  & Co.,  Knitting  Mills, 
rhocnix  Iron  Company, 

Lackawana  Iron  and  Steel  Co. 

Chester  llolling  Mills, 

Cambria  Iron  Company, 

Keystone  Bridge  Company, 
rhiladelphia  & Beading  R.  R.  Company. 
Cumberland  Valley  R.  R.  Company, 
American  Ship  Building  Company  , 
Grand  laike  Coal  Company, 

Continental  Brewing  Company, 

Firth  & Foster  Bros.,  Dyers, 
r.  II.  Glatfelter,  Baper  Mill, 

Fllitherpe  & Co.,  Knitting  Mills. 

.las.  Doak,  .Ir.  & Co.,  Worsted  Mills, 

A.  B.  Farquhar, 

Michael  Schall, 

Schall  & King, 

Giliser  Manufacturing  Company. 

H.  Leh  & Co., 

Baltimore  & Dhio  R.  R.  Companj  , 

Ross  & Sand ford, 

Edgemoor  Iron  Company, 

Steeve  Worsted  Mills, 

Meriden  Rink  Corporation, 

Electrical  Supply  Co., 

^litchell  Bros. 

Berlin  Iron  Bridge  Co., 

.\ubuni  Woolen  Co., 

Elmira  Rolling  Mill, 

Stein  Bros., 

Bolton  Carbon  Co., 

Blonegren  Bros., 

Race  Bros., 

Monger  Bros., 

1st  Reg.  Armory, 

National  Printing  Co., 


Germantown,  Philadelphia. 

Phoenixville, 

Pa 

Scranton, 

Chester, 

.Tohnstown, 

(( 

Pittsburgh, 

Reading, 

Chambersburg, 

1 1 

Philadeliihia. 

i ( 

Pittsburgh,  , 

( 

Philadelphia, 

( 

Philadelphia, 

i 

Spring  Forge, 

i l 

Philadelphia, 

* * 

Philadelphia, 

k i 

York, 

k i 

York, 

t k 

Middletown, 

k k 

Wayiieslioro’, 

ik 

Allentown, 

i k 

Baltimore, 

Md. 

Baltimore, 

Wilmington, 

Del. 

Providence, 

R.  1. 

Meriden, 

Conn. 

.Vnsonia, 

Norwich, 

East  Berlin, 

Auburn, 

N.  Y. 

Elmira, 

t k 

Cleveland, 

Ohio. 

Cleveland, 

“ 

Chicago. 

111. 

Chicago, 

* 

Chicago, 

Chicago, 

Chicago, 

'Phe 
steamers 
failed  to 


Thomsou-lR.uston  lights  are  also  nsed  on  very  nnuiy  of  the 
plying  upon  the  Mississippi  and  Ohio  Rivers,  and  Inn e not 
give  entire  satisfaction  in  every  instance. 


^ T 

-r 

AVERY  LIBR 


o'  1 


